A MAJOR change is coming to the BAFTA Best Film category

There is a major change coming to the BAFTA Best Film category.

The British Academy Film Awards is a yearly award show presented by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.

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In current eligibility rules, movies that are eligible for the Best Film award must have had at least 70 screenings, or 10 screenings per day over seven days around the country.

However, movies must now expand their theatrical release in order to be eligible. Three hundred and fifty screenings are now the minimum, or 50 commercial screens across at least seven days.

“The update ensures BAFTA is in step with release patterns in the UK and that British cinema audiences have access to best film contenders on the big screen," A BAFTA statement read.

Anna Higgs, chair of BAFTA’s film committee, added: “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.”