Bafta 2025 Award Winners: Who Took Home the Top Honours?
The BAFTA 2025 (British Academy Film Awards), better known as the BAFTAs, delivered a night of cinematic celebration at London’s Royal Festival Hall. From surprise wins to expected triumphs, the prestigious event showcased the best in filmmaking, both in Britain and beyond.
The ceremony was filled with glamour, heartfelt speeches, and moments of cinematic history in the making. Here’s a closer look at the BAFTA 2025 night’s biggest winners and the films that left a lasting mark on the industry.
Best Film: Conclave Wins Big
Edward Berger’s gripping drama Conclave took home the biggest prize of the night, winning Best Film against tough competition, including The Brutalist and A Complete Unknown. The film, based on Robert Harris’s novel, follows the intense political intrigue within the Vatican as a new pope is chosen. Berger, who previously helmed All Quiet on the Western Front, continues to prove his mastery of tense storytelling.
Outstanding British Film: Conclave Again!
Conclave doubled its victories by also securing the award for Outstanding British Film, further cementing its dominance at BAFTA 2025. The film stood out among a diverse range of contenders, including Bird, Blitz, and Gladiator II.
Standout Performances: Mikey Madison & Adrien Brody Shine
The Best Leading Actress award went to Mikey Madison for her role in Anora, an unexpected but well-earned victory. Madison’s raw and transformative performance in Sean Baker’s latest drama captivated audiences and critics alike.
In the Best Leading Actor category, Adrien Brody’s powerhouse performance in The Brutalist earned him the win. Brody’s portrayal of an architect struggling in post-war America was widely praised for its depth and complexity.
Meanwhile, Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez) and Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain) secured Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Actor, respectively, further proving that this year’s performances were some of the strongest in recent memory.
Best Director: Brady Corbet for The Brutalist
Brady Corbet’s vision for The Brutalist was recognized with the Best Director award, beating out notable names like Edward Berger (Conclave) and Denis Villeneuve (Dune: Part Two). Corbet’s stark yet emotionally rich storytelling brought this historical drama to life, making it a standout film of the year.
Best Film Not in the English Language: Emilia Pérez
Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez triumphed in the Best Film Not in the English Language category at BAFTA 2025. The film, blending crime, drama, and musical elements, left a lasting impact on audiences with its bold narrative and stellar performances.
Breakthrough Talent: Kneecap Triumphs in Outstanding Debut
Rich Peppiatt, the director and writer behind Kneecap, took home the Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer. The film’s unconventional approach and compelling storytelling helped it stand out in a highly competitive category.
Animation & Family Films: Wallace & Gromit’s Triumphant Return
Aardman’s beloved duo, Wallace and Gromit, returned with Vengeance Most Fowl, which won Best Animated Film and Best Children’s & Family Film at BAFTA 2025. The stop-motion adventure delighted audiences, proving once again that these iconic characters have timeless appeal.
Technical Excellence: Cinematography, Editing & Sound
- Best Cinematography: The Brutalist captured the award for its stunning black-and-white visuals.
- Best Editing: Conclave took home this prize, reflecting its razor-sharp pacing.
- Best Sound & Visual Effects: Dune: Part Two lived up to its blockbuster status, winning both Best Sound and Best Special Visual Effects, solidifying its technical mastery.
Rising Star Award: David Jonsson Wins Public Vote
One of the most anticipated categories, the Rising Star Award, chosen by public vote, was awarded to David Jonsson. His breakthrough performance in Rye Lane and growing presence in Hollywood have positioned him as one of the most exciting new actors to watch.
The BAFTA Legacy Continues
The BAFTA 2025 proved to be an exciting mix of expected wins and surprising upsets. Conclave emerged as the night’s biggest winner, while The Brutalist and Emilia Pérez also made their mark. With the Oscars just around the corner, these victories could be a strong indication of what’s to come.
For now, cinema lovers can celebrate a night that honoured the very best of storytelling, performance, and technical achievement in film.
Full List of BAFTA 2025 Winners:
(For an easy-to-read breakdown, check out the full list of BAFTA 2025 winners below!)
Best Film
🏆 Conclave
Outstanding British Film
🏆 Conclave
Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer
🏆 Kneecap – Rich Peppiatt (director, writer)
Best Film Not in the English Language
Best Documentary
🏆 Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
Best Animated Film
🏆 Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
Best Director
🏆 Brady Corbet (The Brutalist)
Best Original Screenplay
Best Adapted Screenplay
🏆 Conclave
Best Leading Actress
🏆 Mikey Madison (Anora)
Best Leading Actor
🏆 Adrien Brody (The Brutalist)
Best Supporting Actress
🏆 Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez)
Best Supporting Actor
🏆 Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain)
Best Cinematography
🏆 The Brutalist
Best Editing
🏆 Conclave
Best Costume Design
🏆 Wicked
Best Makeup & Hair
Best Original Score
🏆 The Brutalist
Best Production Design
🏆 Wicked
Best Sound
🏆 Dune: Part Two
Best Special Visual Effects
Best British Short Animation
Best British Short Film
Rising Star Award (Public Vote)
Final Thoughts
The BAFTA 2025 reaffirmed the brilliance of British and international cinema, with Conclave leading the charge. The mix of established names and rising stars made for an unforgettable night. As the awards season continues, these wins will likely shape the trajectory for upcoming industry accolades.
What were your favourite moments from the BAFTA 2025? Let us know in the comments!
