BAFTAs 2022: Film For Thought
Unexpected takeaways from the annual award show.
The BAFTAs brings together celebrities and A-listers alike, all in the name of championing the very best of British cinema. After last year’s underwhelming virtual ceremony, the glitzy event was well and truly back, as guests took their seats at The Royal Albert Hall. However, aside from the worthy winners and standout stars, the entire night touched on something far more significant – the art of storytelling.
Film is a form of escapism – a way to disconnect from reality and immerse yourself in something else entirely. Undoubtedly, the evening was clouded by the tragic events unfolding in Ukraine. Many paid tribute to our European neighbors, including host, Rebel Wilson – who quite literally gave Putin the middle finger. Oscar-nominee, Benedict Cumberbatch also shed light on the war, expressing his desire to be part of the “homes for Ukraine” scheme. While the somber undertones were apparent, there were several moving moments – all pointing to the extraordinary impact of film.
Cultural Shifts
Dame Shirley Bassey opened the show with a rendition of the iconic Bond theme, “Diamonds Are Forever”.
The performance signified 60 years of the spy franchise, with Lashana Lynch taking home the EE rising star award for “No Time To Die”. The actress thanked fellow women in the industry, citing that they’ve laid the “foundation” for “dark-skinned” people like herself.
Poignant Perspectives
Cumberbatch was lined up to win Best Actor for western drama, “The Power of the Dog”. However, Will Smith stole the show for his biographical portrayal of “King Richard”.
The film tells the story of the legendary Williams sisters and their father – an inspiring tale of courage and tenacity.
Elsewhere, history was made as Troy Kotsur became the first deaf actor to win Best Supporting Actor. The award was granted for his role in CODA, which follows the trials and tribulations of a teenager as the only hearing person in her family.
Upon receiving the award, Kotsur revealed that the win was a “big pay-off for many years of hellish times”. The film follows the trend of the night – resilience prevailing over adversity. In light of unfathomable uncertainty, the BAFTAs 2022 reminds us of the power of the image, and how it often speaks far more than words.
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