BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

The 2025 BAFTA Film Awards were full of surprises that disrupted expectations, especially with their impact on the upcoming Oscars. Among the biggest moments were unexpected wins that reshaped the race for Hollywood’s top honors. Here are the five most notable surprises:

1. Best Film: Conclave

Despite being overshadowed by other contenders like Anora and The Brutalist, Conclave clinched the prestigious Best Film award. Directed by Edward Berger, the papal selection thriller triumphed over heavy favorites and secured its place as a strong contender for future accolades. This win, marking a breakthrough for the film’s team, shocked many, considering its earlier performances at other award shows.

2. Best Leading Actress: Mikey Madison for Anora

In one of the evening’s most unexpected victories, Mikey Madison took home Best Leading Actress for her role as an exotic dancer in Anora. This win was especially surprising given the dominance of Demi Moore at earlier awards this season, making Madison’s triumph a notable upset. Her heartfelt speech also resonated with audiences, as she brought attention to the sex worker community.

3. Best Leading Actor: Adrien Brody for The Brutalist

Adrien Brody’s win for Best Leading Actor in The Brutalist was a bit of a foregone conclusion, as he had already earned praise at the Golden Globes. However, with other actors in the mix, including those from Conclave, Brody’s victory was still seen as a key moment in the night’s proceedings.

4. Best Director: Brady Corbet for The Brutalist

Although The Brutalist had received heavy attention prior to the BAFTAs, Corbet’s win for Best Director still felt like a surprise. The win indicated the BAFTAs’ support for this slow-burn, intense drama, especially given the competition from other acclaimed directors like Sean Baker for Anora. Corbet’s achievement is set to make The Brutalist a serious Oscar contender.

5. Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña for Emilia Pérez

Zoe Saldaña’s win for her role in Emilia Pérez was a significant surprise in the Supporting Actress category. While the film faced controversy due to the actions of its lead actress, Saldaña’s portrayal of a lawyer involved in a cartel’s deception earned her widespread acclaim.

6. Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin for A Real Pain

Kieran Culkin took home the Best Supporting Actor award for his performance in A Real Pain. Culkin’s win was a surprise given the competition from other well-known contenders, establishing the film as a rising force in this awards season.

7. Best Film Not in the English Language – Emilia Pérez

In a competitive field, Emilia Pérez took home the award for Best Film Not in the English Language. This musical crime drama won hearts with its innovative mix of genres, showcasing Jacques Audiard’s unique directorial style.

These surprises highlight how unpredictable the 2025 BAFTAs were, offering a glimpse into a competitive awards season as the race for the Oscars intensifies.

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo Taken by Stuart Wilson from Getty Images