The BAFTA Film Awards in London saw a mix of humor and drama, with host David Tennant delivering sharp jabs at former U.S. President Donald Trump during his opening monologue. The event also highlighted the leading nominations for various films, including "Conclave," which garnered 12 nominations. Additionally, Rich Peppiatt made history with six nods for his debut film "Kneecap." However, the night was not without its controversies, as Karla Sofía Gascón, nominated for her role in "Emilia Pérez," was notably absent due to backlash from past social media posts.

Tennant's Witty Monologue Targets Trump

David Tennant, the Scottish actor known for roles like Doctor Who, opened the BAFTA ceremony with humor that did not shy away from political commentary. He playfully roasted former U.S. President Donald Trump, drawing laughter and applause from the audience. Tennant cleverly referenced Trump's hair as an example of bold architecture, comparing it to the Brutalist style in film. This humorous take set the tone for the evening, making light of current events while entertaining the crowd.

In his monologue, Tennant quipped about Trump’s claim of not watching "The Apprentice" because it had a British film rating of 15, suggesting it wasn't suitable for children. The host further joked that mentioning Trump's name three times would summon him, akin to calling Beetlejuice. This segment of the show was met with enthusiastic laughter and applause, highlighting the blend of entertainment and satire that marked the evening. Tennant’s wit provided a memorable start to the awards, engaging the audience with timely humor.

Notable Films and Absences at BAFTA

The BAFTA Film Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in cinema, with several films receiving significant recognition. Edward Berger's Vatican drama "Conclave," featuring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, led the pack with 12 nominations. Following closely were Jacques Audiard's "Emilia Pérez" with 11 nominations and Brady Corbet's "The Brutalist" with nine. Notably, Rich Peppiatt's Irish hip-hop biopic "Kneecap" tied the record for most nominations by a debut filmmaker, earning six nods. These accolades underscored the diversity and quality of British filmmaking.

However, the evening was marred by controversy surrounding Karla Sofía Gascón, who was nominated for her lead role in "Emilia Pérez." Despite being the first trans actor nominated for an Oscar, Gascón faced backlash over past controversial posts on social media. Her absence from the event highlighted the tension between her and Netflix, which reportedly hindered the film's Oscar campaign. This situation cast a shadow over what should have been a moment of celebration, illustrating the challenges actors face when their personal lives intersect with public scrutiny.