Highlights from the 79th British Academy Film Awards 2026

BAFTA 2026 Ceremony Overview

The prestigious 79th British Academy Film Awards took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London on February 22. This year's BAFTA celebrated outstanding feature films and documentaries from around the globe that were showcased in British cinemas throughout 2025. The event was available for streaming on YouTube and Lionsgate Play in India on February 23. Notable presenters included Alia Bhatt, Bryan Cranston, Gillian Anderson, and many more, adding star power to the ceremony.

Best Film Award Winner

BAFTA 2026 Best Film

The award for Best Film was awarded to One Battle After Another. This gripping narrative follows Bob Ferguson, portrayed by DiCaprio, who once thrived as a radical in the leftist group French 75. Now living a quiet life with his daughter Willa, the past resurfaces when Col. Steven J. Lockjaw, played by Sean Penn, re-enters his life, forcing Bob back into a tumultuous world of alliances and betrayals. One Battle After Another was in competition with films like Hamnet, Marty Supreme, and Sentimental Value.

Best Director Recognition

BAFTA 2026 Best Director

The Best Director accolade was awarded to Paul Thomas Anderson for his work on One Battle After Another. Anderson, known for his remarkable filmography including There Will Be Blood and Licorice Pizza, has garnered numerous awards throughout his career. His latest win positions him as a strong contender with 11 nominations for the upcoming Oscars 2026. Competing against him were directors like Yorgos Lanthimos and Chloé Zhao. For those who missed its theatrical release, One Battle After Another is now available for streaming on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.