BAFTA Breakthroughs 2025: Akinola Davies Jr. Shines Bright

UPDATE: The British Academy has just announced the 2025 BAFTA Breakthrough U.K. cohort, showcasing 20 emerging talents in film, TV, and gaming. Among this prestigious group is Akinola Davies Jr., whose debut film My Father’s Shadow captivated audiences at Cannes and earned a special mention from the Un Certain Regard jury.

The film has positioned Davies as a prominent figure in the industry, recently selected to represent the U.K. at the Oscars and leading the nominations at this weekend’s British Independent Film Awards. The BAFTA Breakthrough program, backed by Netflix since 2019, aims to propel creatives who are on the brink of significant breakthroughs in their careers.

Why This Matters NOW: This recognition not only highlights Davies’ talent but also the growing influence of diverse voices in cinema. The BAFTA Breakthrough initiative offers participants invaluable resources, including one-on-one meetings, career guidance, and full BAFTA voting membership. This support could greatly enhance the trajectory of these artists’ careers.

Details on the 2025 Cohort: Alongside Davies, the list features talents such as:
– Alderney Middleton – series producer (“Maddie + Triggs”)
– Cara Ellison – writer/narrative designer (“Ghost Town”)
– Jodie-Simone Howe – costume designer (“Mr Loverman”)
– Nathaniel Price – writer/associate producer (“Mr Loverman”)

This year’s program continues a 12-year legacy of supporting creatives from various backgrounds in navigating the complex landscape of the screen arts, as noted by Jane Millichip, CEO of BAFTA.

Next Steps: With the announcement of this year’s cohort, the spotlight will be on how these emerging talents leverage this opportunity. The initiative not only fosters individual growth but also enhances the broader film and television landscape by bringing fresh perspectives and stories.

As the industry eagerly awaits the outcomes of the British Independent Film Awards this weekend and the upcoming Oscar nominations, the impact of the 2025 BAFTA Breakthrough cohort is set to resonate in the film community and beyond.

Stay tuned for further updates on these rising stars as they embark on their journeys in the competitive world of film and television.