BAFTAs 2024: Hits and Misses at Film Awards

The 2024 BAFTA Awards marked a significant triumph for Christopher Nolan, securing his first Best Director award for the biopic “Oppenheimer,” which delves into the ethical turmoil of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the so-called “father of the atomic bomb.” The film, which explores Oppenheimer’s internal conflict over the catastrophic consequences of his creation, also clinched the Best Picture award.

“Oppenheimer” emerged as the standout winner, sweeping seven awards, including Best Actor for Cillian Murphy and Supporting Actor for Robert Downey Jr. Despite Nolan’s previous eight nominations without a win, except for an honorary award in 2010, this year marked a turning point for him at the BAFTAs.

The awards were dispersed among various films, with “Poor Things,” featuring Emma Stone and directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, winning five awards, including Best Actress. Stone’s acceptance speech highlighted her gratitude towards her mother for her unwavering support.

Jonathan Glazer’s “The Zone of Interest” claimed three awards, emphasizing the film’s theme of the dangers of selective empathy, as noted by producer James Wilson in his speech.

While “Oppenheimer” and “Poor Things” dominated the awards, “The Holdovers” received recognition for its casting by Susan Shopmaker and Supporting Actress Da’Vine Joy Randolph, although lead actor Paul Giamatti did not win.

The event also witnessed political activism, with Ken Loach and The Old Oak filmmakers displaying a “Stop the War Coalition” poster protesting the situation in Gaza.

Indian actress Deepika Padukone represented Bollywood at the awards, presenting the Film Not In The English Language category, which was awarded to “The Zone of Interest” by Jonathan Glazer.

Samantha Morton was honored with the BAFTA fellowship, dedicating her award to children in care. Michael J. Fox received a standing ovation as he presented the best film award, showcasing resilience amidst his battle with Parkinson’s disease. His life story, documented in “Still: A Michael J Fox Story,” was also nominated for Best Documentary.