What the 2025 Baftas Reveal About the Oscars: Key Takeaways

The 2025 Bafta Awards have set the stage for the upcoming Oscars, highlighting major contenders and surprising winners. With the British and US film academies sharing many voters, the Baftas often serve as a strong predictor for the Academy Awards.

Kneecap Wins Outstanding Debut

Rich Peppiatt, the director of Kneecap, won the award for outstanding debut by a British writer, director, or producer. The film, a fictional biopic of the Belfast rap trio, had already gained attention after its premiere at Sundance. Peppiatt’s speech emphasized the importance of respecting the group’s homeland.

Despite receiving six nominations, Kneecap only secured one win. Similarly, Saoirse Ronan, nominated for best actress for The Outrun, left without an award.

Conclave Takes Best Film in a Tight Race

The best film category was highly competitive, with three strong contenders. Edward Berger’s Conclave, a gripping drama about the election of a new pope, won the best film award. The film also secured victories in adapted screenplay, editing, and best British film, strengthening its position as an Oscar contender.

The Brutalist and Anora Also Shine

Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist, a visually stunning postwar American epic, won multiple awards, including cinematography, score, best director, and best actor for Adrien Brody.

Meanwhile, Sean Baker’s Anora continued its awards season momentum. The film, a fast-paced screwball comedy, won the casting prize and best actress for Mikey Madison, a surprising but well-received win.

What This Means for the Oscars

The Bafta results suggest that Conclave, The Brutalist, and Anora are strong contenders for major Academy Awards. Anora’s late-season push could make it a front-runner, while The Brutalist’s multiple wins reinforce its chances in technical and performance categories.

With the Oscars approaching, these results indicate potential surprises and a competitive race for the top awards. For a deeper look at the Bafta winners, visit The Guardian’s coverage of the event in blue.