Attention Streamers: BAFTA Changes Theatrical Rules For Best Film Category
deadline.comBAFTA is changing the rules for its Best Film category by increasing the minimum theatrical screenings requirement. From 2025 onwards, films must be theatrically exhibited publicly for the first time to a paying audience on at least 50 commercial screens in the UK for at least seven days e.g.
50 sites WPOR (widest point of release) or the equivalent of at least 350 screenings. Currently the rules state films must have a minimum of ten screenings per day for seven days or 70 in total.
The update is seemingly aimed largely at streamers, both commercial and arthouse, and broadcasters such as Sky, which are increasingly active in major film acquisitions.
It may put a squeeze on some of the smallest distributors hoping to sneak into BAFTA contention with limited runs. BAFTA says it made the amendment after consulting with UK distributors, heads of UK studios, exhibitors, streamers, programmers, industry representative bodies, and British production funding bodies.
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