Happy Feet Big Winner in Genesis Awards

files/pictures/picture-35.jpgTHE SIMPSONS, AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER & HAPPY FEET were among the animated entries taking big honors for positive coverage of animal issues at the 21st Anniversary Genesis Awards. Winners in 18 categories were presented on March 24, 2007, at a gala ceremony at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills in recognition of their superlative portrayals and coverage of animal issues.

In one of the most celebrated and closely-watched categories, HAPPY FEET won the Genesis for best animated family feature film. The story of an outcast penguin who saves himself and his community, the movie bested two other popular features -- OVER THE HEDGE, a story about suburban encroachment on the wild habitat, and OPEN SEASON, a wry tale that offered a fresh perspective on hunting.

Sid Caesar Comedy Award, a comedy is named for humorist, was awarded to THE SIMPSONS, "Million Dollar Abie," for attempting to take the "bull" out of the so-called bravery of bullfighting. Exec producer Al Jean accepted the award and joked, "No animals were harmed in the filming of this cartoon." The animated series beat out the ive-action programs, THE DAILY SHOW WITH JON STEWART and LEWIS BLACK: RED WHITE AND SCREWED.

Outstanding Children's Programming honors went to AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER, "Appa's Lost Days," for a mythical tale about animals held captive for human entertainment that resonates with the way animals are used in circuses today.

Outstanding Dramatic Series was presented to BONES, "The Woman in Limbo," for a stark and dramatic demonstration of the methods used in slaughtering farm animals.

FAST FOOD NATION won the Outstanding Feature Film award for an uncompromising look at the link between the abuse and exploitation of people and animals in a slaughterhouse.

Outstanding Family Feature Film honors went to CHARLOTTE'S WEB for a charming adaptation of a timeless tale about friendship, loyalty and respect for all living creatures.

The Humane Society of the U.S. is the nation's largest animal protection organization with 9.5 million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals and equine protection, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy and fieldwork. The non-profit organization is based in Washington and has field representatives and offices across the country.

For more information and a list of all of the winners, visit hsus.org.