2020 BAFTAs: War epic 1917 backed to ‘clean up at film awards’

The EE British Academy Film Awards return at the beginning of next month, where some of the biggest names in the industry will be recognised for their work over the past year.

The 2020 awards ceremony will take place on Sunday 2 February at the iconic Royal Albert Hall in London.

It’s the 73rd celebration of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, also known as the BAFTAs. BBC will exclusively broadcast the glamorous event.

And it’s Graham Norton who will be hosting the show, taking over the role from Joanna Lumley.

All of the biggest stars will be in attendance as they look to clinch BAFTA success. The organisation has, however, come in for heavy criticism.

However, the event isn’t without controversy. None of the four acting categories acknowledge people of colour. As a result, it’s being reported that the awards have ignored diversity.

American blockbusters Joker, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and The Irishman lead the way in terms of nominations.

Joker is the leader with 11 nominations across the many categories on offer, with both Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and The Irishman receiving ten.

Behind them is war epic 1917, which has received nine nominations, including Best Film, Director and Outstanding British Film.

It will be a hard-fought challenge for Best Film, but 1917 is currently favourite to win the award at 1/3.

Parasite follows closely behind at 9/2, with Once Upon a Time in Hollywood at 5/1. The Irishman is available at 10/1, with the Joker currently 12/1.

1917 is also the frontrunner for the Outstanding British Film category. It’s available at 1/10, with Rocketman and The Two Popes both 7/1.

For Sama is 16/1 to scoop the prize. And Sorry We Missed You and Bait are available at 16/1 and 25/1 respectively.

Renée Zellweger meanwhile is favourite to pick up the prize in the Leading Actress field. She’s 1/6 to win the award for her performance in Judy. And Scarlett Johansson is 8/1 for her role in Marriage Story 8/1.

Jessie Buckley (Wild Rose), Saoirse Ronan (Little Women) and Charlize Theron (Bombshell) have all been given odds of 12/1.

And in the Leading Actor category, it’s Joker’s Joaquin Phoenix who is favourite at 1/12. Rocketman’s Taron Egerton is 8/1, with Adam Driver 12/1 for his role in Marriage Story.

Jonathan Pryce is 14/1 to win Leading Actor for his performance in The Two Popes. 

And completing the hugely competitive field is Once Upon a Time in Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio at 20/1.

Other categories on the night include Animated Film, Original Screenplay, Adapted Screenplay and Casting.