Big night at the 2026 BAFTAs: 'One Battle After Another' dominates and 'Sinners' makes history
Leonardo DiCaprio, Teyana Taylor, Paul Thomas Anderson, Sara Murphy and Benicio del Toro pose with the award for Best film for 'One Battle After Another.'
Image: Justin Tallis / AFP
The 2026 British Academy Film Awards were a night of cinematic triumphs, with “One Battle After Another” emerging as the undeniable star of the evening and taking home an astonishing haul of six BAFTA awards.
From the moment the ceremony kicked off at the Royal Festival Hall in London on February 22, “One Battle After Another” was on a roll.
The film clinched Best Film, a crowning achievement that solidified its place as the most celebrated picture of the night.
Paul Thomas Anderson, who directed and co-wrote the drama, also took home Best Director, while the movie’s screenplay was recognised with Best Adapted Screenplay.
Behind the camera, “One Battle After Another’s” striking visuals earned Best Cinematography and Best Editing.
On the performance front, Sean Penn’s turn in a supporting role was rewarded with Best Supporting Actor, highlighting the film’s strength across both technical and artistic categories.
Another standout of the evening was “Sinners,” which proved it had staying power beyond the nominations.
The film walked away with three coveted awards, including Best Original Screenplay for Ryan Coogler, whose win was historic.
Ryan Coogler won the award for Best orignal screenplay for "Sinners" during the BAFTA British Academy Film Awards.
Image: Justin Tallis / AFP
Coogler became the first Black filmmaker to receive this BAFTA honour, a milestone moment that had the audience cheering.
Best Supporting Actress went to Wunmi Mosaku for her work in “Sinners,” and the film’s haunting musical accompaniment earned Best Original Score, underscoring the emotional impact that helped it connect with voters and audiences alike.
Wunmi Mosaku poses with the award for Best supporting actress in the film "Sinners" during the BAFTA British Academy Film Awards.
Image: Justin Tallis / AFP
The night had its fair share of memorable performances and surprises outside the top winners.
While “Hamnet” earned honours including Outstanding British Film and took home Best Leading Actress for Jessie Buckley’s moving portrayal, newcomer Robert Aramayo was a double winner for “I Swear,” claiming both Best Leading Actor and the public-voted EE Rising Star Award.
Irish actress Jessie Buckley poses with the award for Best leading actress in the film "Hamnet".
Image: Justin Tallis / AFP
Amidst all of this, the red carpet buzzed when Leonardo DiCaprio, who seldom attends such events, made a rare and much-photographed appearance.