Political Thriller 'One Battle After Another' Sweeps BAFTA Awards with Six Major Wins
In a stunning display of cinematic prowess, the politically charged thriller "One Battle After Another" claimed six prestigious awards at the British Academy Film Awards on Sunday, including the coveted best picture honor. This triumph significantly boosts its momentum as the film industry gears up for the Oscars next month.
The ceremony, held at London's Royal Festival Hall, was a glittering affair attended by Hollywood luminaries and British royalty alike. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, graced the audience, adding royal prestige to Britain's most distinguished film celebration.
Major Winners and Surprise Victories
Paul Thomas Anderson's explosive drama about revolutionaries clashing with the state dominated the evening, securing awards for directing, adapted screenplay, cinematography, editing, and Sean Penn's supporting performance. "This is very overwhelming and wonderful," Anderson remarked while accepting the directing prize.
In a remarkable upset, Robert Aramayo captured the best actor award for the British independent film "I Swear," outperforming heavyweight contenders including Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet. Meanwhile, Jessie Buckley, as widely anticipated, won best actress for her poignant portrayal of Agnes Hathaway, William Shakespeare's grieving wife, in the Shakespearean family tragedy "Hamnet," which also earned the best British film award.
The blues-infused vampire epic "Sinners" and the gothic horror reimagining "Frankenstein" each secured three awards. "Sinners" triumphed in original screenplay, musical score, and Wunmi Mosaku's supporting actress performance, while "Frankenstein" was recognized for production design, costume design, and the transformative hair and makeup artistry that turned Jacob Elordi into the iconic monster.
Royal Presence and Celebrity Glamour
The event featured a star-studded red carpet with appearances by Emma Stone, Cillian Murphy, Glenn Close, and Ethan Hawke, among others. Scottish actor Alan Cumming hosted the black-tie ceremony, injecting wit and commentary on the year's cinematic themes. "Watching the films this year was like taking part in a collective nervous breakdown," Cumming observed. "It's almost as though there are events going on in the real world that are influencing filmmakers."
Prince William's attendance came just three days after his uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested over allegations of leaking sensitive government information to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Despite the scandal rocking the royal family, William and Kate remain popular figures, with William set to present an award in his role as president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.
Documentary Honors and International Recognition
The best documentary prize was awarded to "Mr. Nobody Against Putin," a powerful film about a Russian teacher documenting propaganda in schools post-Ukraine invasion. Director David Borenstein emphasized the universal moral choices depicted, stating, "We need more Mr. Nobodies." This win edged out other notable documentaries, including the harrowing Ukraine war portrait "2000 Meters to Andriivka."
Norwegian family drama "Sentimental Value" won best film not in English, while the animated band HUNTR/X performed the hit song "Golden" from the box office success "KPop Demon Hunters," adding a musical highlight to the evening.
Oscars Preview and Industry Insights
With "One Battle After Another" entering the ceremony with 14 nominations and "Sinners" close behind with 13, the BAFTAs often serve as a bellwether for the Oscars. In the upcoming Academy Awards, "Sinners" leads with a record 16 nominations, followed by "One Battle After Another" with 13, setting the stage for a highly competitive showdown.
The awards, officially known as the EE BAFTA Film Awards, are decided by 8,500 U.K. industry professionals, with the Rising Star award uniquely determined by public vote. This year's contenders include Infiniti, Robert Aramayo, Miles Caton, Archie Madekwe, and Posy Sterling, all vying for recognition as future A-listers.
Donna Langley, chairwoman of NBCUniversal Entertainment, will receive the BAFTA fellowship, the academy's highest honor. The ceremony aired on BBC in the U.K. and E! in the U.S., captivating audiences worldwide with its blend of glamour, talent, and cinematic excellence.
