The 2025 BAFTA Awards was a celebration of cinematic excellence, marked by the triumph of two films: “Conclave” and “The Brutalist,” each claiming four prestigious awards. “Conclave,” directed by Edward Berger, won Best Film, Outstanding British Film, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Editing. Berger, in his heartfelt acceptance speech, praised his cast, describing their performances as “pure magic.” Meanwhile, “The Brutalist” secured Best Actor for Adrien Brody, Best Director for Brady Corbet, Best Original Score, and Best Cinematography. Corbet humbly acknowledged the award, suggesting that the notion of a “best director” is an illusion, highlighting the collaborative nature of filmmaking.
The ceremony also celebrated emerging talent, with Mikey Madison’s breakout performance in “Anora” earning her the Best Actress award. Her speech was a testament to her dedication, honoring the sex worker community that inspired her role. “Emilia Perez” took Best Film Not in the English Language, despite facing controversies, while Zoe Saldana’s emotional win for Best Supporting Actress in the same film added depth to the narrative. Saldana poignantly reflected on being discouraged from pursuing roles with a British accent, making her victory especially sweet.
Comedy and animation also shone brightly, with “A Real Pain” winning Best Original Screenplay and Kieran Culkin claiming Best Supporting Actor. Though Culkin was absent due to family reasons, his co-star Jesse Eisenberg accepted the award on his behalf. “The Substance” excelled in Best Makeup and Hair, while “Dune: Part Two” dazzled with its Special Visual Effects. “Wallace And Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl” charmed audiences, securing Best Children’s and Family Film and Best Animated Feature, with director Nick Park humorously admitting he hadn’t prepared a second speech.
The ceremony, hosted by the charismatic David Tennant, opened with a lively rendition of “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles),” setting a vibrant tone. The event was a mosaic of emotions, from the joy of first-time winners to the humility of seasoned nominees. Each winner’s story, like Zoe Saldana’s journey and Mikey Madison’s dedication, underscored the personal and professional triumphs behind the films.
In conclusion, the 2025 BAFTAs was a testament to the power of storytelling, celebrating both established and emerging talent. The ceremony highlighted the diversity and depth of global cinema, from historical epics to intimate character studies. As the industry looks towards the Oscars, the BAFTAs have set the stage, reminding us of the enduring impact of film on hearts and minds.
