Conclave wins top awards amidst Emilia Pérez controversy

In the United Kingdom on February 16, 2025, the BAFTA Film Awards were held, celebrating outstanding achievements in film over the past year. The event saw Conclave, a political thriller about the election of a new pope, take home several major accolades, including Best Film and Best British Film. This victory marker further cements its status in a competitive awards season that has seen the film win against notable contenders. The ceremony was hosted by former Doctor Who star David Tennant and was attended by numerous prominent figures in the film industry. Despite the triumphs of Conclave, the night was marked by the absence of the film Emilia Pérez, which faced significant backlash due to the controversies surrounding its lead actress, Karla Sofía Gascón. The film garnered attention for its portrayal of transgender issues and past social media posts made by Gascón, which created a divide in critical reception and audience perception. Gascón’s withdrawal from promotional activities further complicated the film’s reception and potential awards prospects. Emilia Pérez was nominated for multiple awards but ultimately won in the categories of Best International Film and Best Supporting Actress, with Zoe Saldaña taking home the latter. During her acceptance speech, Saldaña expressed gratitude while addressing the challenges of acting in a film that faced scrutiny. Other wins included honors for the performances in Anora, with Mikey Madison winning Best Actress for her role in a gritty narrative about sex work. The awards presented a mixed bag of results, as no single film dominated the night, indicating a diverse recognition of talent and storytelling. This year's BAFTAs reflect a broader trend within the film industry towards acknowledging a wider range of voices and narratives, particularly as the voting process has evolved to become more inclusive since 2020. The ceremony highlighted the ongoing changes, challenges, and controversies that define the current cinematic landscape, while also looking ahead to the upcoming Academy Awards.