BAFTA Makes Key Changes to Submission Rules

BAFTA has once again revised its submission rules, with the aim of reaffirming the recognition and reward of outstanding human creative achievement in the film industry.

In a series of new rules announced this morning, the headline additions include the expansion of the Outstanding British Film Longlist and the addition of a new clause on films created using generative AI.

The new AI clause reads: “Where the use of Generative AI or other digital tools is relevant to the consideration of the work, BAFTA reserves the right to request additional information regarding the nature of such use and the extent of human creative involvement.”

This new clause will not only apply to the Outstanding British Film category but also to the other 2027 awards. The organisation stated that the rule was created following consultation with the industry and aims to “reaffirm that the Awards recognise and reward outstanding human creative achievement.”

Outstanding British Film Longlist Expansion

The Outstanding British Film Longlist has been expanded from 15 to 20 films, with the category retaining 10 nominations. Five films will be chosen by the membership vote, while the remaining five will be selected by the nominating jury.

This change aims to provide more opportunities for British films to be recognized and celebrated, while also ensuring that the nominations are diverse and representative of the industry.

The Outstanding British Film category was first introduced in 1947, and it has become a prestigious award in the film industry. Past winners include Chloé Zhao for Hamnet, Edward Berger for Conclave, Jonathan Glazer for The Zone Of Interest, and Martin McDonagh for The Banshees of Inisherin.

Children’s & Family Film Category Renamed

BAFTA has also renamed the Children’s & Family Film category to the Family Film category, aiming to provide greater clarity and inclusivity for the types of films eligible for consideration.

The eligibility criteria and voting process remain unchanged, but the new name better reflects the types of films that are eligible for the category.

This change aims to ensure that the category is inclusive and representative of the diverse range of films that are being produced for families and children.

The 80th edition of the BAFTA Film Awards will take place on Sunday, 21 February 2027, in London.