New York - Martin Scorsese's Hugo has been named the year's best film by the National Board of Review.
The group also picked Scorsese as best director for his child friendly 3D film about an orphan who lives in a 1930s Paris train station.
Best actor went to George Clooney for his performance in Alexander Payne's The Descendants, which also earned awards for best adapted screenplay and best supporting actress for Shailene Woodley.
Tilda Swinton was awarded best actress for her performance in We Need to Talk About Kevin.
A gala for the National Board of Review Awards will be held on January 10 in New York, hosted by Today show's Natalie Morales.