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BAFTA 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.
Anna Higgs, Chair of BAFTA’s Film Committee, commented: “Our expanded theatrical screenings requirement will ensure film fans up and down the country have more opportunities to see Best Film contenders on the big screen, so they can join in the discussion and awards excitement along with BAFTA voters. Developed in consultation with a wide range of industry stakeholders, we’re pleased to confirm this update ahead of the eligibility window for the 2025 BAFTAs opening on 1 January 2024.”
Other category and eligibility changes and voting rules will be announced by the org next summer.
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