“Wah-Wah” has been nominated for two British Independent Film Awards – One for “Best Actress (Emily Watson) and one for “Best Debut Director” (REG of course!).

Stephen Frears’ “Mrs. Henderson Presents” and Lawrence Dunmore’s feature debut “The Libertine” lead the field with eight British Independent Film Award nominations each. The eight mentions for “The Libertine” surprised some U.K. industry types as the film had received some negative feedback at Toronto last year after a work-in-progress screening. It appears though that the Johnny Depp starrer has suddenly found favour as BIFA chairman Elliot Grove said the pic “has punk attitude and appeals to young audiences.”

Festival circuit favorite “The Constant Gardener,” which opened the 49th London Film Festival last week, drew seven nominations, including Ralph Fiennes for actor and Rachel Weisz for actress.

Michael Winterbottom’s “Tristram Shandy: A Cock & Bull Story” took five nominations; quirky comedy “Kinky Boots” and horror title “The Descent” are in the running for three awards.

“Mrs. Henderson Presents,” “The Libertine,” “The Constant Gardener,” “Tristram Shandy” and “The Descent” go head to head for British film kudos.

Industry recognition is a boost for “The Descent” after the pic’s theatrical box office biz was severely dented as it opened on the same day in July as the London terrorist attacks. Understandably, despite some very strong reviews, few in the U.K. had the stomach for a tough horror film immediately following the bombings.

Keira Knightley will receive the Variety U.K. personality of the year prize and Tilda Swinton will collect the Richard Harris nod for contribution to British cinema by an actor.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on November 30th.

Thanks to Sue W and REG for the news, and to Archie Thomas at Variety.com.