AVATAR LOSES OUT AT THE OSCARS BUT WINS FOR THE BOOKIES

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James Cameron's sci-fi smash might have been sensationally snubbed by the Academy but it was a big winner for bookies Paddy Power.

The Irish bookmaker took twice the number of bets and double the amount of money on Avatar winning Best Picture than it did on Kathryn Bigelows war-time drama, leaving them in the green to the tune of almost 10,000 euros 

Punters were also convinced that Avatar would clock up more awards overall on the night. Over €3000 was wagered on Avatar winning the most awards compared to €650 put down on The Hurt Locker.

But the bookies didn't get it all their own way, in other categories, all the major favourites picked up their piece of gold. Jeff Bridges won Best Actor at 1/20, Sandra Bullock won Best Actress at 1/3 while Kathryn Bigelow as predicted at odds of 1/10 with Paddy Power, picked up the Oscar for Best Director, becoming the first woman to win that award in the Academy's history.   

Sharon McHugh, spokesperson for Paddy Power said: This was a very successful Oscars for the bookies. After a phenomenal performance at the box office our punters were convinced Avatar had it in the bag for Best Picture. The Academy certainly works in mysterious ways.

So, what are the odds of a woman winning Best Director next year? Paddy Power are already taking bets and are quoting 3/1 on a female director impressing the Academy again next year.   

Best Director  - 2011 Oscars
1/5    Male
3/1    Female