‘One Battle After Another’ Dominates BAFTA 2026

Paul Thomas Anderson’s politically charged thriller ‘One Battle After Another’ emerged as the biggest winner at the 2026 EE British Academy Film Awards, securing six major honours including Best Picture and Best Director. The sweep strengthens the film’s position as a frontrunner ahead of next month’s Academy Awards.

Six Awards Including Top Honours

‘One Battle After Another’ won awards for Best Picture, Director, Adapted Screenplay, Cinematography and Editing, along with a Supporting Actor prize for Sean Penn. Anderson described the recognition as “overwhelming and wonderful” while accepting the directing honour.

The film, centred on a group of revolutionaries clashing with the state, led the nominations with 14 nods. Its strong performance at BAFTA positions it as a key Oscars contender.

Other Major Winners of the Night

Blues-infused vampire epic ‘Sinners’ secured three awards, including Original Screenplay, Musical Score and Supporting Actress for Wunmi Mosaku. Gothic horror ‘Frankenstein’, directed by Guillermo del Toro, also won three trophies for Production Design, Costume Design and Hair & Make-up.

Shakespearean drama ‘Hamnet’ was named Best British Film, while Jessie Buckley won Best Actress for portraying Agnes Hathaway. In a surprise result, Robert Aramayo claimed Best Actor for the indie drama ‘I Swear’, defeating high-profile nominees including Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet.

The Best Film Not in the English Language award went to Norwegian drama ‘Sentimental Value’.

Star-Studded Ceremony in London

The ceremony, held at London’s Royal Festival Hall and hosted by Scottish actor Alan Cumming, drew prominent figures from film and royalty. Prince William, in his capacity as BAFTA president, attended alongside Catherine, Princess of Wales.

The evening blended political themes and cinematic glamour, reflecting a year in which nominated films tackled subjects such as racism, child loss and political violence.

Important Facts for Exams

• BAFTA stands for the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.
• The Academy Awards, or Oscars, are organised by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
• Best British Film is a distinct category at the BAFTA Awards.
• Film awards often influence global box office and critical recognition.

Momentum Towards the Oscars

With six BAFTA wins and strong critical reception, ‘One Battle After Another’ has consolidated its status as a major awards-season force. As Hollywood prepares for the Oscars, the film’s dominance in London signals growing momentum and international acclaim.