The 2025 Bafta Film Awards, often regarded as the UK’s equivalent of the Oscars, saw Conclave and The Brutalist emerge as the night’s big winners, each securing four awards. Among the evening’s most memorable moments was an unexpected victory from Mikey Madison, who triumphed in the Best Actress category for her role in Anora, edging out the heavily favored Demi Moore. Meanwhile, Adrien Brody secured Best Actor for his compelling portrayal in The Brutalist, a film that also claimed Best Director for Brady Corbet.
Conclave and The Brutalist Lead the Pack
Conclave, Edward Berger’s gripping papal thriller, took home the prestigious Best Film award, alongside Outstanding British Film, Adapted Screenplay, and Editing. The film’s emotional depth and meticulous crafting were also reflected in its multiple wins.
The Brutalist, directed by Brady Corbet, matched its success with four awards, including Best Director, Best Actor for Adrien Brody, Cinematography, and Original Score. The film’s visual artistry and evocative storytelling were celebrated throughout the night.
Mikey Madison Stuns with Best Actress Win
In one of the night’s most talked-about moments, Mikey Madison shocked the industry by winning the Best Actress award for her role in Anora. Known for playing a sex worker who falls for a Russian oligarch, Madison’s performance outshone the competition, including a strong showing from Demi Moore, who was considered a favorite for the Oscar.
Madison, who received widespread acclaim for her portrayal, thanked her cast and particularly honored the sex worker community in her speech, calling for greater respect and dignity.
Emilia Perez: A Night of Two Wins
Netflix’s Emilia Perez was another major winner, with Zoe Saldana taking home the Best Supporting Actress award. The film also claimed the Best Film Not in the English Language, a testament to its powerful international impact.
Jesse Eisenberg and Keiran Culkin Shine
The night also saw Jesse Eisenberg take home the Best Original Screenplay award for A Real Pain, while co-star Keiran Culkin won Best Supporting Actor for his standout role. The pair’s chemistry and dynamic performances were instrumental in the film’s success.
Tributes and Performances
The 2025 Baftas also saw emotional tributes and unforgettable performances. Legendary star Warwick Davis was awarded the Bafta Fellowship, acknowledging his extraordinary career across multiple iconic franchises, including Star Wars and Harry Potter. In an emotional speech, Davis dedicated the award to his late wife, thanking his family for their support.
Meanwhile, Take That performed “Greatest Day” from the soundtrack of Anora, while Jeff Goldblum delivered a piano performance during the In Memoriam section, drawing praise from the audience.
David Jonsson’s Rising Star Moment
David Jonsson, known for his roles in Alien: Romulus and Industry, won the public-voted EE Rising Star Award. Reflecting on his career, Jonsson spoke about the importance of representation and expressed gratitude for his journey in the industry, emphasizing that the award marked a pivotal moment for his career.
Conclusion
The 2025 Baftas showcased a mix of seasoned talents and new voices, with Conclave and The Brutalist leading the charge. Mikey Madison’s breakthrough win and the recognition of emerging stars like David Jonsson highlighted the ever-evolving landscape of cinema. As the awards season continues, these films and performances will surely remain in the conversation, influencing both audiences and industry professionals alike.
