It Shouldn’t Happen To A Film Journalist

Editor-at-Large JAMIE GRAHAM lifts the lid on film journalism.

Earlier this year, Bafta faced a barrage of criticism after failing to nominate a single person of colour in the acting categories – Margot Robbie was even nominated twice. Following a seven-month review, the British Academy has announced 120 wide-ranging changes, representing the biggest steps forward for equality in Bafta’s 73-year history.

The most aggressive of these new rules comes in the directing category, where the historical underrepresentation of female directors (six nominees in 73 years) will be tackled by parity at the longlist stage, with 10 male and 10 female directors being whittled down to a final six. The acting categories, meanwhile, will expand from five to six nominees each.

Even bigger amendments have been implemented behind the scenes, with the addition of 1,000 new members from underrepresented groups. For their part, members must now watch all longlisted films before Round 2 in order to vote, with improved access to digital screeners and conscious voter training available to help level the playing field.

Taken as a whole, these new rules could prove to be a sea change moment for the British film industry. “There is a real wish and support for Bafta to continue to be an industry leader on diversity and other issues,” says Chair Krishnendu Majumdar. With next year’s Bafta awards set for 11 April 2021, the results will soon speak for themselves. JF

ETA | 11 APRIL 2021 / THE 74TH BRITISH ACADEMY FILM AWARDS TAKE PLACE NEXT YEAR.