AceShowbiz - BAFTA CEO Jane Millichip is thrilled with the diversity of storytelling showcased in the recently announced film awards nominations. The anticipation surrounding the nominations mirrors the discussions from last week’s Oscars, with films like One Battle After Another and Sinners competing for top honors at the U.K.'s premier film event on February 22 in London.

Warner Bros. is receiving significant acclaim for both films, with Paul Thomas Anderson’s political thriller leading the BAFTA nominations with a total of 14 nods, closely followed by Ryan Coogler’s horror film set in the Deep South, which secured 13 nominations. Hamnet and Marty Supreme are not far behind, each garnering 11 nominations.

Millichip, who assumed her role at BAFTA in 2022, expressed her excitement to The Hollywood Reporter about the 2026 nominations, highlighting the theme of “bold, strong, uncompromising, unique storytelling.” She stated, “There are films, particularly in the best film category, examining the fragility of activism, Black identity, and corruption, all offering unique perspectives on these crucial topics.”

She praised Ryan Coogler for addressing significant themes within a genre film that remains entertaining, stating, “All credit to him and the team. It’s brilliant.” Millichip also noted a collection of more intimate and personal films, such as Hamnet, I Swear, and Sentimental Value, emphasizing the year’s strong narratives and diverse storytelling styles.

Interestingly, Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet made history by receiving the most nominations ever for a film directed by a woman at BAFTA, with a total of eight nods. This recognition underscores the importance of representation in film.

The nominations also celebrate a variety of smaller-budget films, including Pillion by Harry Lighton and The Ballad of Wallis Island directed by Tim Key and Tom Basden. Millichip highlighted the essential balance between British and international talent in the nominations.

She emphasized that BAFTA’s goal is not to influence voting but to enhance the processes under their control. “We’re not here to fix elections and tell people how to vote. The next job we have is: ‘What do we control?’” she remarked, affirming the integrity of the awards.