LONDON: Drama “Oppenheimer”, a three-hour epic about the making of the atomic bomb during World War Two, led the early wins at the BAFTA Film Awards on Sunday.

Known as the BAFTAs (British Academy of Film and Television Arts), the ceremony is being hosted by actor David Tennant.

As well as a spate of celebrities attending the ceremony at the Royal Festival Hall by the River Thames in central London, the guest list also includes BAFTA President Prince William.

One of the highest-grossing films of 2023, “Oppenheimer” picked up prizes for editing and cinematography and supporting actor for Robert Downey Jr early in the ceremony. It has the most nominations for Britain’s top movie honours, with 13.

“I’m so grateful I’m going to give you my life story in 30 seconds,” Downey Jr, who last won a BAFTA in 1993 for “Chaplin”, said in his acceptance speech. “I share this with my fellow nominees, this has been an exceptional year.” “Oppenheimer” is favourite to win the night’s top prize, best film, as well as best director for Christopher Nolan.

Published in Dawn, February 19th, 2024