The highly anticipated showdown between “One Battle After Another” and “Sinners” is set to take center stage in the U.K., as both films from Warner Bros. topped the BAFTA Film Award nominations. This announcement comes after a Tuesday reveal, showcasing that Paul Thomas Anderson’s political satire leads the pack with 14 nominations—just two shy of the record established by “Gandhi.” It ties the nominations of classic films like “All Quiet on the Western Front” and “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.”
Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners” follows closely with an impressive 13 nominations, marking a significant milestone as the most nominations for any film directed by a Black filmmaker in BAFTA history. This nomination also marks the first for Coogler and actor Michael B. Jordan at the BAFTAs.
Other notable films included in the nominations are “Hamnet” and “Marty Supreme,” both of which received 11 nominations each. “Hamnet,” directed by Chloé Zhao, proudly represents the U.K. while also indicating a landmark achievement as Zhao stands as the only female director nominated this year. Timothée Chalamet makes his return to the leading actor category, competing again for a BAFTA after last year’s acclaim.
The best film category comprises the aforementioned four films, alongside “Sentimental Value,” which has notably earned Stellan Skarsgård his first BAFTA nomination at the age of 74. The nominations reflect a blend of predictability with familiar titles among the top contenders.
Emerging local indie films such as “I Swear,” “Pillion,” and “The Ballad of Wallis Island” showcased impressive performances during the longlist stage, elevating their presence in key categories. “I Swear” features Robert Aramayo, who is also a nominee for the Rising Star award, and all three films clinched spots in the screenplay categories.
Prominent British actors were also recognized, with Paul Mescal and Emily Watson from “Hamnet,” Wunmi Mosaku from “Sinners,” and Carey Mulligan from “Wallis Island” all receiving nominations, reflecting the depth of talent in British cinema.
Despite strong contenders, there were notable omissions. “Frankenstein” received eight nominations but failed to secure a spot for best film or best director. Additionally, “Wicked: For Good” garnered nominations for costume and makeup but many anticipated categories.
The BAFTA Film Awards are set to take place on February 22 at London’s Royal Festival Hall, with Alan Cumming serving as the host for the evening.
This year’s nominations shine a spotlight on a diverse range of talent and storytelling, hinting at an exciting future for cinema as it evolves in representation and innovation. The landscape for filmmakers of various backgrounds continues to broaden, fostering hope for a more inclusive medium.