The BAFTA Film Awards, commonly known as the BAFTAs, are set to take place on Sunday night in London. For those new to Britain’s equivalent of the Oscars, here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you’ll want to know before the ceremony begins.
What are the BAFTAs, and why do they matter?
The BAFTAs represent the British film industry’s premier award show. They are also widely considered a strong indicator for the Academy Awards, thanks to significant overlap in their voting members. For instance, all major acting winners at last year’s BAFTAs went on to secure Oscars.
However, this doesn’t mean the two ceremonies are always in lockstep. Last year, “Conclave” won Best Film at the BAFTAs, while “Anora” ultimately claimed the Oscar for Best Picture.
The eagerly anticipated ceremony will be held at London’s Royal Festival Hall, kicking off around 4:45 p.m. local time (11:45 a.m. Eastern).
How can I watch the ceremony?
Audiences in both the United States and Britain can catch the awards via delayed broadcasts. In Britain, the BBC will air the ceremony starting at 7 p.m. local time. For viewers in the United States, E! will broadcast the show at 8 p.m. Eastern and 8 p.m. Pacific.
Who are the leading contenders this year?
“One Battle After Another” leads the pack with an impressive 14 nominations for this year’s BAFTAs, closely followed by “Sinners.” These two formidable films will vie for the coveted Best Film award alongside “Hamnet,” “Marty Supreme,” and “Sentimental Value.”
While many US viewers might anticipate a fierce contest between “One Battle After Another” and “Sinners” for the top honors, it’s worth keeping a close eye on Chloé Zhao’s “Hamnet.” This film, which delves into Shakespeare’s private life, his wife, and their family struggles, features an acclaimed cast including Irish stars Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, and could very well resonate strongly with BAFTA voters.
As of Friday, British bookmakers placed “Hamnet” as the second favorite to win Best Film, just behind “One Battle After Another.”
Will the ceremony showcase a distinct British flair?
Absolutely. The BAFTAs dedicate several awards specifically to British films. Among the contenders for the Outstanding British Film prize are titles that have garnered critical acclaim in Britain but may be less familiar internationally, such as “The Ballad of Wallis Island,” a charming folk music comedy; “Pillion,” a B.D.S.M. romance; and “I Swear,” a film about a man living with Tourette’s syndrome.
Expect a touch of royal elegance as well: Prince William, who serves as BAFTA’s president, is a regular attendee at the awards.
Stars made political statements at the Grammys. Is similar activism likely at the BAFTAs?
At this month’s Grammy Awards, music icons like Bad Bunny and Billie Eilish used their acceptance speeches to criticize the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, with many attendees sporting “ICE OUT” badges.
It’s possible that some BAFTA winners may also use their time on stage to address political matters. In recent years, actors and directors have leveraged the awards to speak out about Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing issue of diversity within the film industry. However, such speeches in Britain typically provoke less media and political uproar compared to their US counterparts.
Who is hosting this year’s event?
The Emmy and Tony Award-winning Scottish actor Alan Cumming will host this year’s ceremony. Fans of “The Traitors” will know to expect plenty of wit from Cumming, and perhaps even a flamboyant outfit or two!
Cumming follows in the footsteps of fellow Scottish host David Tennant, who last year opened the ceremony by serenading the audience with “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles),” a Scottish pop hit from the 1990s. Tennant playfully encouraged stars like James McAvoy, Anna Kendrick, and Colman Domingo to join in, with Cynthia Erivo enthusiastically singing along without any prompting.
Could another presenter steal the show from Cumming? Perhaps. BAFTA organizers recently announced that Paddington Bear — or at least the performers from his West End musical — will also be presenting an award. Prepare for maximum cuteness!