BAFTA Film Awards 2023: ‘Conclave’ and ‘The Brutalist’ Triumph with Four Wins Each
The 2023 British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) celebrated the cinematic achievements of the year, with "Conclave" and "The Brutalist" emerging as the dominant winners, capturing four awards apiece.
Conclave: A Papal Thriller
"Conclave," a gripping tale of papal selection, led the nominations with 12 and claimed the coveted award for Best Film. Edward Berger, the film’s director, delivered an emotional acceptance speech, reflecting on the current crisis of democracy and the importance of resilience in times of adversity. "Conclave" further triumphed in the categories of Outstanding British Film, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Editing.
The Brutalist: Post-War Architecture and Personal Strife
"The Brutalist," a sweeping three-and-a-half-hour epic, captured the audience with its portrayal of a Hungarian immigrant architect navigating life in post-World War II United States. Brady Corbet earned the Best Director accolade, while Adrien Brody took home Best Actor for his poignant performance. The film also garnered awards for Original Score and Cinematography.
Surprises and Underdogs Emerge
In a captivating twist, Mikey Madison snagged the Leading Actress award for her portrayal of an exotic dancer in "Anora." Despite the anticipated triumphs of Demi Moore and Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Madison’s performance stood out, showcasing the strength and determination of an underestimated character. She dedicated her victory to the sex worker community, calling for respect and human decency.
"Emilia Perez," a genre-bending musical crime thriller, took home the award for Best Film Not in the English Language. Director Jacques Audiard expressed gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging the tireless efforts of the cast and crew. The film’s star, Karla Sofía Gascón, had been nominated for Leading Actress but was absent from the ceremony due to controversy surrounding past social media posts. Despite this setback, the film’s achievements were celebrated.
Zoe Saldaña triumphed in the Supporting Actress category for her role in "Emilia Perez," portraying a lawyer aiding a Mexican cartel leader in a complex plot involving gender transition. The film’s momentum had waned slightly after the Gascón controversy, but it found redemption with this significant award.
In the Supporting Actor category, Kieran Culkin emerged victorious for his performance in "A Real Pain," a poignant dramedy. The film also garnered Best Original Screenplay for writer-director Jesse Eisenberg.
Additional Highlights and Thoughts
The BAFTA Film Awards 2023 celebrated artistic excellence, recognizing both established talents and emerging voices. The wins of "Conclave" and "The Brutalist" underscore the power of compelling storytelling and cinematic vision, while the surprises and underdogs remind us of the diverse and captivating nature of the film industry. The night’s events showcased the transformative power of film and the enduring spirit of human creativity.
