Two very different films – one follows a dog that unites an outback town, the other a real life serial killer – have shared the honours at the AACTA (formerly the AFI) Awards.

Red Dog capped off an extraordinary journey with the Best Film gong, proving Aussies love a good underdog story, reports The Herald Sun.

However, it was the grim tale of South Australia's infamous bodies in barrels case that won the night, with four Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts awards.

Snowtown was honoured for Best Direction for Justin Kurzel as well as Best Adapted Screenplay.

While newcomer Daniel Henshall upstaged a number of veterans for the Best Lead Actor gong for his chilling portrayal of serial killer John Bunting.

He beat out Australian of the Year Geoffrey Rush (The Eye of the Storm), two-time Oscar nominee Willem Dafoe (The Hunter) and three-time AFI winner David Wenham (Oranges and Sunshine).

Lousie Harris, who made her feature film debut in Snowtown, picked up the Best Supporting Actress award. While Best Lead Actress went to Judy Davis for Eye of the Storm.

In the TV categories, The Slap took home a swag of awards, including Best Telefeature, Mini Series or Short Run Series, Best Direction and Best Screenplay.

Alex Dimitriades was also recognized as Best Lead Actor, with Diana Glenn named Best Guest or Supporting Actress.