NEW YORK — Richard Linklater's 12-years-in-the-making “Boyhood” has been named best picture by the New York Film Critics Circle. The critics group announced its awards Monday. “Boyhood” also received best director honors for Linklater and best supporting actress for Patricia Arquette. Its production was uncommonly stretched out over years to capture the passage of time. The strong support from one of the country's top critics groups gives “Boyhood” an early boost in Hollywood's lengthy awards season. The film is considered an Oscar front-runner. The awards will be handed out on Jan. 5. — AP