The BAFTAs Celebrate Both Belfast And Last Night In Soho

This morning the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) unveiled its awards nominations. We are thrilled that both Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast and Edgar Wright’s Last Night in Soho were richly recognized. The award ceremony is slated for March 13 at Royal Albert Hall and will be hosted by Rebel Wilson. 

Belfast graced with six nominations

Belfast, Kenneth Branagh’s poignant and personal account of a young boy, Buddy (Jude Hill), growing up in Belfast at the start of the Troubles garnered six nominations. The film was nominated for both Best Film and Best British Film. Branagh was nominated for Original Screenplay for his lyrical story of a family finding joy in each other, even during tough times. “BAFTA’s recognition for Belfast is an amazing tribute to a remarkable part of the world. This news on top of the incredible box office support from UK and Irish cinema audiences is truly fantastic,” exclaimed Branagh. “We are humbly and delightfully gobsmacked!”

Caitríona Balfe, who plays Buddy’s Ma, was nominated for Supporting Actress. “Thank you so much to BAFTA for this nomination,” Balfe exclaimed. “This film, this story, is such a beautiful exploration of love, kindness and the need for tolerance at a time when it’s needed more than ever. I am so grateful to Ken for entrusting me with playing Ma. And to be nominated alongside this wonderful group of actresses truly is an honour.” After Ciarán Hinds received the news that he was nominated for Supporting Actor for playing Buddy’s grandfather, Pop, he said, “I’m quietly thrilled and genuinely grateful, not only about my nomination but for all the nominations the film has received from BAFTA.” Úna Ní Dhonghaíle, who was nominated for Editing, also voiced his appreciation: “Thank you BAFTA!I am overwhelmed to see my name alongside such wonderful fellow editors. It was a joy for me to work with Ken and all of our incredible cast and team on this beautiful film. I'm celebrating all of these BAFTA nominations with our brilliant 'Belfast family'.”

Two noms for Last Night in Soho

Edgar Wright’s stylish time-traveling thriller, Last Night in Soho, was spotlighted. The film was nominated for Outstanding British Film. Its multilayered sonic texture was acknowledged with a nomination for Sound for Colin Nicolson, Julian Slater, Tim Cavagin, and Dan Morgan.