British Academy Film Awards facts for kids

The British Academy Film Awards are a super important annual award show. They are hosted by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). Think of them as the British version of the famous Oscars in the United States. Since 2008, the ceremony has been held at the Royal Opera House in London. Before that, it was at the Odeon cinema in Leicester Square.

History of BAFTA

BAFTA started in 1947. It was first called The British Film Academy. Famous movie makers like David Lean and Alexander Korda helped create it. In 1958, this Academy joined with another group that focused on TV. Together, they became The Society of Film and Television. Later, in 1976, this group changed its name to The British Academy of Film and Television Arts, which is what we know today.

BAFTA is supported by about 6,000 people. These members work in movies, TV, and even video games. The awards themselves look like a theatrical mask. An American artist named Mitzi Cunliffe designed them in 1955.

The Annual Ceremony

The location for the 2008 ceremony.

The BAFTA Awards ceremony used to happen in April or May. But since 2002, it takes place in February. This is so it happens before the Oscars. Most of the awards are open to movies and people from all over the world. However, there are special awards just for British films. These include "Outstanding British Film" and "Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Producer or Director." The awards for Short Film and Short Animation are also only for UK movies.

The Awards ceremony is shown on British television. It's usually broadcast the day after it happens. Most often, you can watch it on BBC One.

What Awards Are Given?

BAFTA gives out many awards to celebrate the best in movies. These awards honor different parts of filmmaking.

Movie Awards

• BAFTA Award for Best Film: For the best movie overall.
• BAFTA Award for Best British Film: For the best movie made in Britain.
• BAFTA Award for Best Foreign Film: For the best movie not in English.
• BAFTA Award for Best Short Film: For the best short movie.
• BAFTA Award for Best Animated Film: For the best cartoon movie.
• BAFTA Award for Best Documentary: For the best non-fiction movie.

Awards for People Behind the Scenes

British Academy Special Awards

BAFTA also gives out special awards to honor people for their amazing work over many years.

• BAFTA Academy Fellowship Award: This is the highest honor BAFTA can give.
• Orange Rising Star Award: This award celebrates new, upcoming talent in the film industry.

Images for kids

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  The famous BAFTA mask and the logo of the BBC (which broadcasts the awards).

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  Sir Daniel Day-Lewis at the 2008 BAFTA Awards. He has won four BAFTA Awards for Best Actor.

See also

In Spanish: Premios BAFTA para niños