HOLLYWOOD - Scandal-hit Hollywood left its woes behind Saturday to honor Amy Adams for a glittering career that has seen her go from waitress to five-time Oscar nominee.

The 43-year-old - famous for the diversity of her film roles - said ahead of being presented with the 31st American Cinematheque Award that her proudest moment was her first nod for 2005 comedy "Junebug."

"It really depends where I am in my life, but right now I'm looking for films with a specific message," she said on the red carpet in Beverly Hills as she weighed her 18-year career.

"It can be very subtle, but I want it to mean something to me and move me forward in my life."

A host of A-listers paid tribute to Adams in a rare celebration at the end of a week which has seen the industry tarnished by unprecedented allegations of sexual misconduct.

"I'm always happy when I show up at work and she's there," said Michael Shannon, who starred alongside Adams in 2016 neo-noir thriller "Nocturnal Animals," as well as two "Superman" movies.

"I've never seen her be anything but hard-working and easy to be around."

Adams's four other Oscar nominations were for best actress in "American Hustle" and supporting-actress roles for "Doubt," "The Fighter" and "The Master" - but she has never won the coveted statuette.

"I think Amy and I have the same attitude about it. We just feel fortunate that we're a part of this business to begin with," two-time Oscar nominee Shannon said.

Adams's award was a welcome moment of levity in a difficult week of soul-searching in Hollywood, which has seen the Harvey Weinstein sexual misconduct scandal expand to envelope Oscar-winner Kevin Spacey and comic actor Louis C.K.

Adams's movie credits have included awards season favorites such as "Arrival" and box-office smashes such as "Enchanted" and "Man of Steel."

She won Golden Globes for her work in "American Hustle" and "Big Eyes." - AFP