"One Battle After Another" Dominates Bafta Nominations Amidst Fierce Competition
Published 27 January 2026
Highlights
- Leonardo DiCaprio's "One Battle After Another" leads the Bafta Film Awards with 14 nominations, followed by "Sinners" with 13.
- Timothée Chalamet and Jessie Buckley are frontrunners in the lead acting categories, repeating their Oscar nominations at the Baftas.
- The Baftas feature more slots than the Oscars, allowing for additional nominees like Paul Mescal and Robert Aramayo.
- British films such as "I Swear" and "The Ballad of Wallis Island" are recognized in Bafta's shortlists, highlighting UK talent.
- Alan Cumming will host the Bafta Film Awards at London's Royal Festival Hall on February 22.
Leonardo DiCaprio's politically charged thriller "One Battle After Another" has emerged as the frontrunner at this year's Bafta Film Awards, securing 14 nominations. The film narrowly edges out Ryan Coogler's vampire thriller "Sinners," which garnered 13 nominations. Both films are leading the charge in a competitive awards season, with "Marty Supreme" and "Hamnet" also making strong showings with 11 nominations each.
Celebrating British Talent
The Bafta Film Awards, known for their emphasis on British cinema, have recognized several homegrown films this year. "I Swear," a British comedy about a Tourette syndrome campaigner, received five nominations, including a nod for best actor for Robert Aramayo. Other British films like "The Ballad of Wallis Island" and "Pillion" have also been acknowledged, underscoring Bafta's commitment to celebrating UK talent. Bafta chair Sara Putt expressed her excitement, stating, "It is thrilling to see British indie films and debuts in the company of blockbusters that have taken the world by storm."
Notable Nominations and Snubs
Timothée Chalamet and Jessie Buckley, both considered frontrunners in the lead acting categories, have repeated their Oscar nominations at the Baftas. Meanwhile, actors like Paul Mescal and Robert Aramayo, who were overlooked by the Oscars, have found recognition at the Baftas, thanks to the additional slots available in the acting categories. However, some notable names, including Amy Madigan and Delroy Lindo, missed out on Bafta nominations despite their Oscar nods.
Hosting and Ceremony Details
The Bafta Film Awards ceremony will be hosted by actor and TV presenter Alan Cumming at London's Royal Festival Hall on February 22. The event promises to be a celebration of cinematic excellence, with a diverse range of films and performances being honored.
What this might mean
As the Bafta Film Awards approach, the competition between "One Battle After Another" and "Sinners" is expected to intensify, potentially influencing their standing in the upcoming Oscars. The recognition of British films at the Baftas could boost their visibility and success in international markets. Additionally, the inclusion of actors like Paul Mescal and Robert Aramayo highlights the Baftas' role in elevating emerging talent, which may lead to more diverse and inclusive nominations in future awards seasons.
