BAFTA 2025: Top Winners and Biggest Surprises

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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 Hollywoodās top honors. Here are the five most notable surprises:
1. Best Film: Conclave
Embed from Getty ImagesDespite 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 filmās 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 Madisonās 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
Embed from Getty ImagesAdrien Brodyās 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, Brodyās victory was still seen as a key moment in the nightās proceedings.
4. Best Director: Brady Corbet for The Brutalist
Although The Brutalist had received heavy attention prior to the BAFTAs, Corbetās 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. Corbetās achievement is set to make The Brutalist a serious Oscar contender.
5. Best Supporting Actress: Zoe SaldaƱa for Emilia PƩrez
Embed from Getty ImagesZoe SaldaƱa’s win for her role in Emilia PĆ©rez was a significant surprise in the Supporting Actress category. While the film faced controversy due to the actions of its lead actress, SaldaƱaās portrayal of a lawyer involved in a cartelās deception earned her widespread acclaim.
6. Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin for A Real Pain
Embed from Getty ImagesKieran Culkin took home the Best Supporting Actor award for his performance in A Real Pain. Culkinās 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 ā Emilia PĆ©rez
Embed from Getty ImagesIn a competitive field, Emilia PĆ©rez 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 Audiardās 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
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