The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) recently revealed its nominations for 2025, stirring up both excitement and controversy. Unlike the Oscars, which typically limit nominations to five in most categories, BAFTA allows six contenders, theoretically providing more room for recognition. However, this year's list has left many scratching their heads over some surprising exclusions and unexpected inclusions. The nominations have not only highlighted the unpredictability of awards season but also cast a shadow of uncertainty over the upcoming Oscars.
One of the most talked-about surprises came from the Leading Actress category. Marianne Jean-Baptiste, known for her powerful performance in "Hard Truths," rightfully earned a nomination, along with Mikey Madison, Karla Sofía Gascón, Demi Moore, and Cynthia Erivo. Yet, the inclusion of an Irish actress who has been nominated five times before caught many off guard. This decision meant that Kate Winslet, a national treasure and veteran actor, was left out despite a last-minute campaign for her role in "Lee." Another acting legend, who delivered a standout performance in a workplace comedy, was also overlooked, further complicating her Oscar prospects. At one point, she was considered a frontrunner for Best Actress at the Academy Awards, but now her chances seem less secure.
In another twist, Angelina Jolie, who gave what many consider her career-best performance in Pablo Larraín's biopic of Maria Callas, did not even make the longlist of 10. Despite the film's visual and costume design being worthy of praise, it seems that BAFTA voters were not as impressed by the hallucinatory narrative. This omission adds to a growing list of snubs for Jolie, including missing out on SAG and Golden Globe nominations, making her path to an Oscar nomination increasingly difficult.
The Leading Actor category also saw its share of surprises and disappointments. Daniel Craig, who received Golden Globe and SAG nods for his role in Luca Guadagnino's unconventional take on William S. Burroughs, was notably absent from the BAFTA lineup. Given his previous success and the film's critical acclaim, this exclusion comes as a significant blow to his awards momentum. On the other hand, Hugh Grant made an unexpected appearance for his chilling performance in Scott Beck and Bryan Woods’s psychological thriller "Heretic." While this nomination may not translate into an Oscar nod, it is a noteworthy achievement for the beloved British actor.
The Supporting Actress category brought its own set of surprises. Jamie Lee Curtis, fresh off a SAG nomination, secured a spot for her role in Gia Coppola’s "The Last Showgirl," joining Ariana Grande, Felicity Jones, Isabella Rossellini, Selena Gomez, and Zoe Saldaña. However, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor and Deadwyler, both of whom delivered outstanding performances, were notably absent from the longlist. Despite Deadwyler’s recent SAG nomination, she too missed out on a Golden Globe nod, leaving her fate uncertain as awards season progresses.
In the Best Director category, all expected nominees—Sean Baker, Brady Corbet, Edward Berger, Denis Villeneuve, and Jacques Audiard—secured spots. However, the sixth slot went to a French filmmaker for her mind-bending satire, rather than Payal Kapadia for "All We Imagine as Light." This choice could potentially bolster her chances for an Oscar nomination next week.
The biggest thrill of the day came from the recognition of Rich Peppiatt’s "Kneecap," a raucous origin story centered on a Belfast-based rap trio. The film, which was longlisted in seven categories, managed to secure six nominations, including Outstanding British Film, Outstanding Debut, and Original Screenplay. After its impressive showing at the British Independent Film Awards, "Kneecap" is poised to walk away with multiple statuettes on BAFTA night. There are even hopes that it might make its way to the Oscars, possibly performing its Best Original Song nominee "Sick in the Head."
The 2025 BAFTA nominations have undoubtedly shaken up the awards landscape, introducing new contenders while sidelining some expected favorites. As the industry looks ahead to the Oscars, these surprises and snubs will continue to shape the conversation and add layers of intrigue to the race. With so much at stake, the coming weeks promise to be filled with anticipation and speculation about who will ultimately take home the top honors.