The Bafta Awards for 2024 were dominated by the film Oppenheimer, with Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr, and director Christopher Nolan all being honored for their work on the film. Murphy was named best actor for his portrayal of J Robert Oppenheimer, while Downey Jr won best supporting actor. The drama won seven Baftas, including best film, and Poor Things picked up five awards, including best actress for Emma Stone.
The awards ceremony also saw Da’Vine Joy Randolph win best supporting actress for The Holdovers. In a surprise appearance, Michael J Fox announced Oppenheimer as the winner of best film, and received a standing ovation from the audience.
The Irish actor, Murphy, thanked the “Oppenhomies” and praised Nolan, while Downey Jr thanked Nolan for pushing him to excellence. It was Nolan’s first Bafta win, and he acknowledged the film’s backers for taking on something dark.
Other notable wins included Stone’s second career Bafta for best actress and The Zone of Interest for best British film. The Boy and the Heron also became the first Japanese production to win best animated film.
The ceremony was hosted by David Tennant, and performers included Sophie Ellis-Bextor. Despite having multiple nominations, certain films like Barbie and Killers of the Flower Moon did not take home any awards.
In her acceptance speech, Bafta Fellowship recipient Samantha Morton dedicated her award to every child in care, as she grew up in the care system in Nottingham. Former Doctor Who star David Tennant hosted the ceremony in a kilt, and made references to box office blockbuster Barbie in his opening monologue.
The Bafta Awards saw Oppenheimer come out as the big winner of the night, with critics suggesting that the film and its acting talents could repeat their successes at the Oscars in three weeks.
