The Manipuri film Boong, produced by Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment, won the BAFTA Award for Best Children’s & Family Film in London on 22 February 2026. Directed by debutant Lakshmipriya Devi, the film stood out among international contenders including Lilo and Stitch, Arco and Zootropolis 2. In her acceptance speech, Devi made an emotional appeal for peace. She received the award from Paddington Bear, the lead character of Paddington The Musical, and was joined on stage by producers Farhan Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani, and assistant director Rahul Sharda. The film stars Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam.
At the 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs), the action thriller One Battle After Another dominated the ceremony, winning six awards, including Best Film. Paul Thomas Anderson won Best Director, along with awards for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Cinematography, dedicating his directing honour to late producer and assistant director Brit Adam Somner. The film also earned Supporting Actor for Sean Penn and entered the Oscars as a strong contender with 14 BAFTA and 13 Oscar nominations.
The vampire saga Sinners and gothic horror Frankenstein won three awards each. Ryan Coogler received Best Original Screenplay for Sinners, while Wunmi Mosaku won Supporting Actress. Jessie Buckley was named Best Actress for Hamnet, which also won Best British Film, and Robert Aramayo claimed Best Actor for I Swear.
The star-studded ceremony, held at London’s Royal Festival Hall, was attended by leading Hollywood and British stars, including Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales. Bollywood star Alia Bhatt appeared as a celebrity guest presenter, awarding Best Film Not in the English Language to the Nordic drama Sentimental Value.
