Warner Bros. Discovery has emerged as the frontrunner at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, securing the highest number of nominations. The studio earned a total of 27 nods, thanks to the strong performance of One Battle After Another with 14 nominations and Sinners with 13. The achievement continues WBD’s strong momentum this year, positioning the studio as a dominant force in the awards season.
Universal Close Behind
Universal Pictures and Focus Features followed closely with 24 nominations. Their lineup included Hamnet with 11 nods, Bugonia with five, and The Ballad of Wallis Island with three, including recognition for Carey Mulligan. The studio also celebrated nominations for Wicked: For Good in Costume Design and Make Up & Hair, despite the film being overlooked at the Oscars.
Netflix and Mubi Make Impact
Netflix secured 14 nominations, led by Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, which earned eight. Other Netflix titles such as Train Dreams and Apocalypse in the Tropics also contributed to the tally. Mubi landed 13 nominations, with Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value accounting for eight. The platform’s diverse slate, including Die My Love and The Secret Agent, highlighted its growing influence in international cinema.
Other Standout Performances
Picturehouse Entertainment earned five nominations, including three for Pillion, starring Alexander Skarsgård. Studiocanal also picked up five nods, all for I Swear, a film centered on Tourette syndrome awareness. Apple Original Films received four nominations, led by F1, while Disney secured five across titles such as Avatar: Fire and Ash, Zootropolis 2, and Lilo & Stitch. Meanwhile, A24 faced disappointment with just one nomination for Warfare, directed by Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza.
Industry Reaction
The nominations reflect a competitive awards season, with major studios and streaming platforms vying for recognition. WBD’s dominance underscores its strong slate of films, while Universal’s consistent performance highlights its ability to balance blockbuster appeal with critical acclaim. Smaller distributors also made their mark, ensuring a diverse mix of films across genres and themes.
Looking Ahead
The BAFTA Film Awards will serve as a key indicator of momentum heading into the Oscars. With WBD leading the nominations, industry watchers will be keen to see if the studio can convert its success into wins on the night.
