BBC Films to receive BAFTA honour

BBC Films is to receive the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award at the BAFTA Awards at London’s Royal Opera House on Feb 8.

The prize is presented annually in honour of Michael Balcon, with previous recipients including Mike Leigh, Kenneth Branagh, Derek Jarman, Mary Selway, Ridley and Tony Scott, Working Title Films, Lewis Gilbert, the Harry Potter series of films, John Hurt and Tessa Ross.

Last year’s recipient was British writer-director Peter Greenaway.

Celebrating its 25^th anniversary this year, BBC Films has a strong track record in developing and co-producing award-winning films, most recently Pride and Philomena.

Christine Langan, head of BBC Films, said: “For the past 25 years, great effort has gone into establishing BBC Films as a nurturing and collaborative home for filmmakers - one which showcases British talent to the world and deepens the impression of the British film industry as a vital cultural force.

“I want to thank all the amazing film makers, our many partners and a deeply committed team of BBC colleagues, past and present, who have made BBC Films the creative hub that it is today.

“It’s a real privilege to lead the team at BBC Films and we will all be galvanised in our efforts to support and promote the industry by this prestigious award from BAFTA.”

Since its inception in 1990, BBC Films has collaborated with an array of acclaimed directors including David Cronenberg, Jane Campion, Tom Hooper, Ken Loach, Michael Winterbottom, Sam Mendes, Stephen Daldry and Stephen Frears.

With more than 250 movies in its catalgoue, BBC Films has more than 20 BAFTAs and 100 nominations to its name. In BAFTA’s Best Film and Outstanding British Film categories alone, BBC Films has received 29 BAFTA nominations including three wins for films such as Billy Elliot, Fish Tank and My Summer of Love.

Last year saw Philomena, Good Vibrations, Saving Mr Banks and The Invisible Woman nominated at the BAFTAs. 

This year sees Pride nominated for Outstanding British Film and Supporting Actress, and both Pride and Lilting have been nominated for Outstanding Debut.