12th Independent Spirit Awards

The 12th Independent Spirit Awards, honoring the best in independent filmmaking for 1996, were announced on March 22, 1997.

It was hosted by Samuel L.

Jackson.

[1][2][3] When We Were Kings Larry Fessenden – Habit

Joel and Ethan Coen , winners of Best Screenplay

William H. Macy , winner of Best Male Lead

Frances McDormand , winner of Best Female Lead

Benicio del Toro , winner of Best Supporting Male

Elizabeth Peña , winner of Best Supporting Female