BAFTA Film Awards 2026 Kick Off with Glamour and Anticipation in London
The 79th EE BAFTA Film Awards officially begin this evening, transforming London's iconic Royal Festival Hall into a hub of cinematic celebration. A glittering array of famous faces from the film industry are set to grace the red carpet, all vying for the prestigious golden mask trophies that symbolise excellence in British and international cinema.
Alan Cumming Takes Centre Stage as Esteemed Host
Scottish actor and performer Alan Cumming has been entrusted with hosting duties for this year's ceremony, bringing his distinctive charm and wit to proceedings. Cumming's role involves guiding the evening's events, presenting awards, and entertaining the audience of nominees and guests.
Nominations Dominated by Top Contenders
Paul Thomas Anderson's intense thriller 'One Battle After Another' leads the nominations with an impressive 14 nods, including critical categories such as Best Film and Best Director. Following closely is Ryan Coogler's vampire chiller 'Sinners', which has secured 13 nominations, showcasing its broad appeal across various award segments.
Additional strong contenders include 'Hamnet' and 'Marty Supreme', each boasting 11 nominations. In the acting categories, Jessie Buckley is widely tipped as the favourite for Best Actress for her role in 'Hamnet', while Timothée Chalamet is strongly expected to claim the Best Actor award for his performance in 'Marty Supreme'.
Venue and Atmosphere at the Royal Festival Hall
The Royal Festival Hall on London's South Bank provides a fitting backdrop for this prestigious event, known for its architectural grandeur and cultural significance. The venue will be filled with anticipation as winners are announced and speeches delivered, marking key moments in the film awards season.
As the ceremony unfolds, viewers can expect a night of celebration, surprises, and recognition for outstanding achievements in filmmaking over the past year.