The BAFTA 2025, one of the most prestigious awards in the global cinema industry, announced its official list of nominees on January 15, 2025. Among the surprises was the inclusion of the Brazilian film I’m Still Here, directed by Walter Salles, in the category of Best Film Not in the English Language. The work, which narrates the story of Eunice Paiva during the dark period of Brazil’s military dictatorship, had already garnered global recognition by winning important previous awards, including the Golden Globe.
With a captivating storyline and a masterful performance by Fernanda Torres, the film has moved audiences and critics worldwide. The BAFTA ceremony is scheduled for February 16, 2025, at the iconic Royal Festival Hall in London and will be hosted by renowned actor David Tennant. This milestone reaffirms the growing recognition of Brazilian cinema on the international stage.
In addition to I’m Still Here, other prominent names lead the nominations this year. Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, tops the list with 12 nominations, followed by Emilia Pérez with 11 and O Brutalista with 9. These films compete in various categories, reflecting the high quality of this year’s cinematic productions.
Highlights of BAFTA 2025
The competition in the Best Film category is intense. Nominees include productions such as Anora, O Brutalista, Um Completo Desconhecido, Conclave, and Emilia Pérez. These films feature diverse and original narratives, exploring themes ranging from social dilemmas to science fiction. Conclave stands out for its unique take on political drama and Edward Berger’s precise direction.
In the Best Film Not in the English Language category, I’m Still Here competes with productions like Everything We Imagine as Light, Emilia Pérez, Kneecap – Music and Freedom, and The Sacred Fruit’s Seed. These works represent different cultures and narratives, making the competition even more relevant and diverse.
The journey of I’m Still Here
The film I’m Still Here premiered at the Venice Film Festival in September 2024, earning immediate praise from international critics. The story, centered on Eunice Paiva, explores the challenges and losses faced by a mother during Brazil’s political repression. Fernanda Torres, who plays Eunice, was awarded Best Actress in a Drama Film at the Golden Globes, marking her performance as one of the most remarkable of the year.
Since its release in Brazilian cinemas in November 2024, I’m Still Here has drawn over three million viewers. This success reflects not only the quality of the production but also the emotional impact of its narrative. Walter Salles, known for works like Central Station and The Motorcycle Diaries, delivers sensitive and precise direction that elevates the film further.
The significance of the BAFTA for Brazilian cinema
BAFTA recognition is an important milestone for Brazilian cinema, which has long sought greater international visibility. This marks the first nomination of a Brazilian film since City of God in 2004. The inclusion of I’m Still Here in the competition underscores the quality of national productions and paves the way for new opportunities in the global market.
Facts about the nominees
- Conclave, the most nominated film this year, delves into the behind-the-scenes of electing a new pope.
- O Brutalista features Adrien Brody in the lead role, a drama exploring the dilemmas of a visionary architect.
- Emilia Pérez, a musical comedy directed by acclaimed Jacques Audiard, showcases Karla Sofía Gascón in a standout role.
- Wicked, an adaptation of the famous Broadway musical, is also among the nominees in technical and acting categories.
The numbers of BAFTA 2025
- 12 nominations: Conclave leads with the most categories.
- 11 nominations: Emilia Pérez stands out as one of the favorites.
- 9 nominations: O Brutalista reinforces its relevance with multiple mentions.
- 7 nominations: Anora and Wicked share prominence in various categories.
- 6 nominations: Um Completo Desconhecido closes the list of main highlights.
Expectations for the Oscars 2025
With the visibility achieved at the BAFTA, Ainda Estou Aqui increases its chances of being nominated for the Oscars. Experts suggest that the film has potential to compete in categories such as Best International Feature Film, Best Actress, and Best Director. If nominated, it would mark the first time in two decades that Brazil is represented at the world’s most prestigious film awards.
Complete list of BAFTA 2025 nominees
Best Film
- Anora
- The Brutalist
- A Complete Stranger
- Conclave
- Emilia Pérez
Best British Film
- Bird
- Blitz
- Conclave
- Gladiator 2
- Hard Truths
- Kneecap – Music and Freedom
- Lee
- Love Lies Bleeding: The Love Bleeds
- The Outrun
- Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance
Best Film Not in the English Language
- Everything We Imagine as Light
- Emilia Pérez
- I’m Still Here
- Kneecap – Music and Freedom
- The Sacred Fruit’s Seed
Best Director
- Sean Baker (Anora)
- Brady Corbet (O Brutalista)
- Edward Berger (Conclave)
- Denis Villeneuve (Dune: Part 2)
- Jacques Audiard (Emilia Pérez)
Cultural impact of I’m Still Here
The film not only revisits a fundamental part of Brazilian history but also emphasizes the importance of preserving the memory of the dictatorship’s victims. The work has sparked debates about social justice and human rights, especially during a period of intense political discussions in Brazil.
The grandeur of the BAFTA
Held annually, the BAFTA is considered the British equivalent of the Oscars. The ceremony recognizes the best in film and television and serves as a barometer for other major awards. In 2025, the event promises to be even more special, with a list of nominees that reflects the diversity and quality of contemporary cinema.
