A Night of Predictable Triumphs
A Night of Predictable Triumphs
The 2024 Bafta Awards ceremony, featuring frontrunners “Oppenheimer” and “The Desperate,” unfolded with few surprises, given their dominance in key categories.
Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” a cinematic portrayal of the atomic bomb’s history, garnered 13 nominations and clinched seven awards, including Best Film and Best Director.
The film’s leads, Killian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr., triumphed as Best Actor in a Leading Role and Best Supporting Actor, respectively. Murphy edged out Paul Giamatti of “The Holdovers” in a closely contested battle for the title.
Nolan, at 54, secured his first Bafta victory after eight prior nominations. In his acceptance speech, he acknowledged the long-standing efforts towards nuclear disarmament.
“The Desperate,” directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, predictably won Best Special Effects, the first of its five accolades that evening.
Emma Stone’s portrayal of Bla in “The Desperate” earned her the Best Actress award. In her speech, the 35-year-old expressed gratitude to her mother, attributing her success and life’s achievements to her support.
The star-studded 77th British Academy Film Awards took place at London’s Royal Festival Hall, with celebrities like Margot Robbie, Robert Downey Jr., and Ryan Gosling gracing the event.
Prince William was present, sharing a warm moment with last year’s Best Actress winner, Kate Blanchett. Kate Middleton, recovering from a recent operation, was notably absent.
David Tennant, 52, known for “Doctor Who,” hosted the ceremony, succeeding Richard E. Grant from the previous year. Tennant kicked off the event with humor and a formal monologue.
Alexander Payne’s “The Holdovers” also fared well, securing two awards from its seven nominations.
Devine Joy Randall, at 37, outshone her peers to win Best Supporting Actress, receiving a standing ovation and praise from presenter Chiwetel Ejiofor.
Jonathan Glazer’s “The Zone of Interest” took home three awards, including Best Soundtrack, Best British Film, and Best Foreign Language Film. Despite its Polish setting and German cast, the film was recognized for its British production roots.
Producer James Wilson highlighted the importance of remembering historical and contemporary atrocities upon accepting the awards.
Ken Loach and Paul Laverty made a poignant statement on the red carpet, advocating for the cessation of violence in Gaza.
Lastly, “20 Days in Mariupol,” a documentary by Mstislav Chernov, won Best Documentary, offering a harrowing account of life in the besieged Ukrainian city.
Maryam Tahmadebi.