The 18th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF)will present the cast of Babel with the festival's Ensemble Performance Award and AlejandroGonzalez Inarritu with the Director of the Year Award.

Cast members Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Adriana Barraza and Rinko Kikuchiare expected to attend along with Inarritu. This will be the first year thefestival has presented an ensemble award to a cast.

'Babel is truly a remarkable film, featuring a diverse castof both actors and non-actors, all of whom contributed immeasurably to the powerof this unique film,' festival chairman Earl Greenburg said.

'We are delighted to have the opportunity to honor theseensemble performances featuring international superstars and unknown locals. Inarrituhas created a masterful film that has earned international praise and acclaimthus earning him the festival's Director of the Year Award.'

The Awards Gala is scheduled to take place on Jan 6 2007. For moredetails visit the official website at www.psfilmfest.org.