Jessie Buckley won the best actress award at the 79th British Academy Film Awards on Sunday, taking the prize for her performance in Hamnet. The ceremony, held at London’s Royal Festival Hall, saw Paul Mescal, nominated for best actor, attend with partner Gracie Abrams.
Buckley appeared on the red carpet in an electric blue Grecian-style gown, featuring a high neckline, bedazzled brooches, and a scooped back. Mescal opted for a loose-fitting black suit and white shirt. Cillian Murphy, also in attendance, wore a black suit with a white tie, while Maura Higgins chose a red satin dress. Maggie O’Farrell, author of Hamnet, also wore red.
The awards saw a trend toward daring fashion choices. Emma Stone wore a black dress with a halter-neck, keyhole cut-out, and backless design. Carey Mulligan chose a navy halter-neck dress, also backless with a single thin strap, paired with a relaxed bob. Chase Infiniti, nominated for best actress for One Battle After Another, wore a red strapless gown with a flared hem. Erin Doherty, in a Louis Vuitton design, sported a black dress with a statement skirt and low neckline.
Men’s wear also featured bold choices, with host Alan Cumming showcasing a modern take on traditional suiting. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, were also present at the event.
Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Archie Madekwe were among the stars arriving at the Royal Festival Hall, drawing attention from fans. The awards ceremony is considered a key indicator for the upcoming Oscars. This year’s nominations were led by Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another, with 14 nominations, and Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, with 13. Both films were nominated for best film, alongside Hamnet, Marty Supreme, and Sentimental Value.
Paddington Bear also made an appearance on the red carpet, reportedly with a marmalade sandwich. Joe Alwyn was photographed in a white jacket, while Gillian Anderson wore a Roksanda design.
