The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
1917 sweeps board at the Bafta awards
War epic praised but event criticised for lack of diversity among nominees
War epic 1917 has swept up at the British Academy film awards but the ceremony faced criticism for lack of diversity among its nominees.
Sir Sam Mendes’ deeply personal film, based on a story told to him by his grandfather, won seven of the nine prizes it was nominated for, including best film, outstanding British film, best director and best cinematography.
Joaquin Phoenix was named best actor for Joker and used his speech to address the fact only white performers were nominated this year.
He said: “I feel very honoured and privileged to be here tonight – Bafta has always been very supportive of my career and I’m deeply appreciative, but I have to say that I also feel conflicted because so many of my fellow actors that are deserving don’t have that same privilege.
“I think that we send a very clear message to people of colour that you’re not welcome here.”
The Duke Of Cambridge, who is president of Bafta, also referred to the issue in his speech on stage.
Renee Zellweger was named best actress for her turn as Judy Garland in Judy at the ceremony and Laura Dern was named best supporting actress for Marriage Story.
Brad Pitt, who was named best supporting actor for Once Upon A Time...In Hollywood, missed the ceremony because of “family obligations”, while Micheal Ward was named EE rising star.
Roger Deakins’ win for best cinematography for 1917 means he has become the most-decorated winner of that category, while Sir Sam won his first directing prize, making him the first British winner in the category since Danny Boyle won for Slumdog Millionaire.
The outstanding British contribution to cinema award was presented to Andy Serkis, while the EE rising star prize was awarded to Micheal Ward.
Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy was presented with Bafta’s highest honour, the Fellowship.