BAFTA Longlists: Highlights and Surprises with ‘Wallis Island’ Rising and ‘After The Hunt’, ‘Ann Lee’ Missing Out
The BAFTA longlists were unveiled today, showcasing a mix of anticipated nominees alongside some surprising omissions. While the list may not have shaken the awards landscape dramatically, it certainly raised a few eyebrows. Here’s a summary of notable snubs and surprises.
Voting for the second round, which will determine the nominations, begins today and will close on January 20. The nominations will be announced on January 27, with the ceremony scheduled for February 22.
Snubs
After The Hunt
After its premiere on the Lido, Amazon and Luca Guadagnino’s drama received a Golden Globe nomination for Julia Roberts. However, the film did not secure any nominations from BAFTA, with Roberts notably absent from the Best Actress longlist.
The Testament Of Ann Lee
Mona Fastvold’s drama, which debuted at Venice, comes from a creative team known for their award-winning history. Despite critical acclaim, BAFTA voters chose to exclude it entirely, with Amanda Seyfried missing from the Best Actress category despite her Golden Globe nomination.
Sound Of Falling
Mascha Schilinski’s drama garnered rave reviews at Cannes, where it won the Jury Prize. As Germany’s entry for the Best International Film category and with eight European Film Awards nominations, it was a significant contender but unfortunately received no recognition from BAFTA.
Anemone
Much anticipation surrounded Daniel Day-Lewis’ return in his son Ronan’s independent drama. However, the film has not resonated at major awards ceremonies, marking an unusual absence of nominations for the esteemed actor.
The Chronology Of Water
Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut, showcased at Cannes, follows a woman navigating a troubled past through competitive swimming, toxic relationships, and addiction. Despite its impact, the film did not receive any nods from BAFTA.
Lollipop
This British indie drama, which previously won a BIFA, saw hopes dashed for BAFTA recognition, ending up excluded from the list entirely.
Christy
There were expectations that Sydney Sweeney might gain traction for her role in David Michod’s boxing drama, but the film has yet to impact awards voters despite its Toronto premiere.
Surprises
The Ballad Of Wallis Island
This Universal/Focus comedy-drama scored an impressive five longlist entries, including Best Film. The story of an eccentric lottery winner, played by Carey Mulligan, has found success through word-of-mouth and critical acclaim. The question remains whether it will convert this momentum into nominations.
Smashing Machine
After a celebrated debut at the Venice Film Festival, expectations were high for this A24 project, particularly for actors Emily Blunt and Dwayne Johnson, who both received Golden Globe nominations. However, it appears on only one BAFTA longlist, for hair and makeup.
Wicked
The musical sequel achieved eight longlist mentions but notably lacked entries in the Best Film categories at both the Golden Globes and BAFTA, raising questions about its overall reception.
I Swear & Pillion
These indie films have surpassed expectations, each appearing in six longlist categories, with I Swear even making it into Best Film. Following a strong showing at the BIFAs, hopes are high for Robert Aramayo’s nomination in the Best Actor category.
Dragonfly
Andrea Riseborough continues to shine on the awards circuit, appearing on the longlist for this understated Brit drama-thriller, which premiered at Tribeca. Her role as a neighbor to a neglected pensioner has garnered attention, echoing her Oscar nomination for To Leslie.
My Father’s Shadow
This Cannes-lauded drama received one longlist entry, but after twelve BIFA nominations—including a Best Director win—supporters anticipated further recognition.
Jay Kelly
The Netflix comedy secured a solitary entry for Adam Sandler, leaving some disappointment as George Clooney misses the chance to extend his nine BAFTA nominations.
