Bafta 2026 nominations: how to watch the official announcement and support Brazilian film hopefuls this Tuesday

The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA), widely known as the “British Oscars,” is set to reveal its official list of nominees for the 2026 ceremony this Tuesday, January 27. The eagerly awaited announcement will commence at 9 AM (Brasília time), drawing global attention to the cinematic achievements of the past year.

Film enthusiasts, industry professionals, and critics worldwide are keen to see which productions, directors, and actors will contend for the prestigious golden mask. This year’s preliminary selections have generated particular excitement for Brazil, with four pre-nominations across three distinct films already making a significant impression.

These early recognitions underscore a strong international presence for Brazilian cinema, hinting at a potentially landmark year at the BAFTA Awards. The complete roster of nominees will shape the definitive race towards the culminating gala event scheduled for February.

How to watch the BAFTA 2026 nominations live

Viewers in Brazil and around the globe can access the nominee reveal free of charge, starting at 9 AM (Brasília time) on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The British Academy ensures extensive coverage across its various official digital platforms, making the event accessible to a broad audience.

The announcement will be streamed live and simultaneously on the BAFTA official website, its dedicated YouTube channel, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). These platforms will also provide real-time updates and immediate reactions, ensuring that fans and followers do not miss any crucial moment of the unveiling.

Brazilian cinema’s strong showing in preliminary BAFTA list

Brazil has already secured a notable position with four preliminary nominations, announced earlier this month, signaling a promising trajectory for its film industry. These initial recognitions strategically place Brazilian talent in contention for the final nominee slots across several prominent categories.

Among the critically acclaimed Brazilian films, “The Secret Agent” garnered two preliminary nods, highlighting its compelling narrative and artistic merit. This political thriller has captivated international audiences and critics alike, positioning it as a significant candidate in the race for nominations.

Further enhancing the country’s prestige, both “Apocalypse in the Tropics” and “Train Dreams” each received a single pre-nomination. These diverse selections, ranging from documentary to drama, collectively underscore the remarkable depth and variety of cinematic storytelling currently emerging from Brazil.

Key contenders and categories for Brazilian hopefuls

Kleber Mendonça Filho’s “The Secret Agent,” a gripping political thriller set against the backdrop of Recife in 1977, received pre-nominations in both the Best Film Not in the English Language and Best Original Screenplay categories. Its intricate plot and masterful direction have resonated strongly with international critics, establishing it as a formidable contender for a coveted nomination. Petra Costa’s profound documentary, “Apocalypse in the Tropics,” also secured a preliminary nod for Best Documentary, continuing its impressive journey through the global film festival circuit and cementing its critical acclaim. Additionally, Brazilian cinematographer Adolpho Veloso earned recognition in the Best Cinematography category for his visually stunning work on “Train Dreams,” showcasing the exceptional visual artistry consistently produced by Brazilian filmmakers.

The voting process and upcoming BAFTA ceremony

Following the eagerly anticipated official nominee announcement, the definitive final voting phase will promptly commence, engaging over 8,000 global members of the British Academy. These highly esteemed industry professionals will meticulously cast their votes for their favorite films and artists, thereby determining the ultimate winners between January 28 and February 17.

The culmination of this prestigious awards season will be marked by the grand red carpet event and the awards presentation ceremony. The BAFTA 2026 gala is precisely scheduled to take place on February 22, promising an evening filled with glamour, anticipation, and heartfelt celebration for the most outstanding achievements in film from the preceding year.

“The Secret Agent”: diving into the political thriller

Set in Recife in the tumultuous year of 1977, “The Secret Agent” unfolds as an intense political thriller that meticulously follows the journey of Marcelo, a university professor. Fleeing a shadowy and mysterious past, he returns to his hometown in a desperate search for tranquility, only to quickly realize that the city is far from the refuge he desperately seeks, instead finding himself entangled in a complex web of local intrigue and danger.

Stellar cast and critical reception for “The Secret Agent”

The production features a formidable ensemble cast, each member contributing significantly to the depth and intensity of its gripping narrative. Wagner Moura, internationally recognized for his powerful portrayal in “Elite Squad,” leads the cast with a performance that critics have lauded as anchoring the film’s complex emotional and political landscape.

He is joined by Maria Fernanda Cândido, celebrated for her compelling work in “Terra Nostra,” whose performance adds substantial dramatic weight and nuance to the film’s unfolding story. Gabriel Leone, widely recognized for his captivating role in “Dom,” also delivers a compelling portrayal that enhances the intricate dynamics within the ensemble.

The cast further includes talents such as Isabél Zuaa, known for her role in “The Devil’s Knot,” and Alice Carvalho, from the acclaimed series “New Cangaceiro.” Both actresses contribute distinct textures and powerful performances to the film’s rich and multifaceted tapestry of characters, enhancing its overall impact.

“The Secret Agent” has already garnered significant international recognition, having secured nearly 60 awards following its appearances at prestigious events like the Golden Globe Awards. Moreover, it has also received four nominations for the 2026 Academy Awards, solidifying its status as a major global cinematic force and a testament to its widespread critical and popular appeal.