The 79th edition of the British Academy Film Awards delivered a memorable celebration of global cinema at London’s Royal Festival Hall on Sunday. The 2026 ceremony marked a landmark evening for One Battle After Another, which emerged as the night’s biggest winner.
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the film secured six major awards, including Best Film, Best Director, Adapted Screenplay, Cinematography, Editing, and Supporting Actor for Sean Penn.
One Battle After Another Leads BAFTA Awards 2026
The critically acclaimed drama stood out across key categories, solidifying its place as one of the most celebrated films of the year. While Leonardo DiCaprio was nominated for Leading Actor for his role in the film, he did not take home the award.
The ceremony was hosted for the first time by Alan Cumming, who brought energy and warmth to the prestigious awards night.
Other Major Winners at BAFTA 2026
Close behind was Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler, which won three awards, including Original Screenplay, Original Score, and Supporting Actress.
Meanwhile, Frankenstein, helmed by Guillermo del Toro, dominated the technical categories with wins in Costume Design, Make Up & Hair, and Production Design.
In the performance categories:
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Leading Actress went to Jessie Buckley for her performance in Hamnet.
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Leading Actor was awarded to Robert Aramayo for I Swear.
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Supporting Actress was won by Wunmi Mosaku for her role in Sinners.
BAFTA Awards 2026: Full List of Key Winners
Best Film
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One Battle After Another — WINNER
Outstanding British Film
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Hamnet — WINNER
Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer
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My Father’s Shadow — WINNER
Film Not in the English Language
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Sentimental Value — WINNER
Documentary
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Mr. Nobody Against Putin — WINNER
Animated Film
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Zootropolis 2 (Zootopia 2) — WINNER
Children’s & Family Film
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Boong — WINNER
Director
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Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another) — WINNER
Original Screenplay
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Ryan Coogler (Sinners) — WINNER
Adapted Screenplay
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Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another) — WINNER
Leading Actress
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Jessie Buckley (Hamnet) — WINNER
Leading Actor
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Robert Aramayo (I Swear) — WINNER
Supporting Actor
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Sean Penn (One Battle After Another) — WINNER
EE Rising Star Award (Public Vote)
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Robert Aramayo — WINNER
A Night Celebrating Global Storytelling
The BAFTA Awards 2026 highlighted diverse storytelling, emerging talent, and established filmmakers from across the world. From powerful performances to technical brilliance, the evening reflected the evolving landscape of international cinema and the collective creativity that defines the film industry today.
With One Battle After Another leading the honors and several other films earning critical recognition, the 79th BAFTA Awards set a high benchmark for the awards season.
