Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II Dominates 2025 BAFTA Longlists with Nine Nominations While Paul Mescal Faces Omission from Leading Actor Category in London

BAFTA Longlists for 2025: The Big Surprise

The 2025 BAFTA longlists are finally here, and Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II has made a strong impression with a whopping nine nominations.

The film, which grossed over R 7.8 billion globally, has earned praise across several categories, including Outstanding British Film, Cinematography, and Costume Design.

It’s a major milestone for the film, but there’s a twist in the story.

Paul Mescal’s Omission: A Bitter Blow

One major surprise from the longlists is the absence of Gladiator II‘s lead actor, Paul Mescal, from the Leading Actor category.

Despite delivering an exceptional performance as Lucius Aurelius, an exiled prince who becomes a gladiator, the 28-year-old Irish actor did not make the cut.

This comes after he was also snubbed from the Golden Globes shortlist just last month.

For Mescal, who earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actor just two years ago for Aftersun, this exclusion stings.

Fans and critics alike were quick to express their disappointment, with many feeling that he deserved a nod for his gripping portrayal in the film.

Denzel Washington’s Moment to Shine

In contrast, the legendary Denzel Washington has earned a nomination in the Best Supporting Actor category for his role as Macrinus, a slave trader in Gladiator II.

Washington’s performance has been widely praised as powerful and compelling, with many fans thrilled to see him get the recognition he deserves.

Known for iconic roles in films like Training Day and Fences, Washington’s BAFTA nomination is a well-deserved highlight of the season.

Meanwhile, British actors have made their mark in the Leading Actor category, with notable names like Hugh Grant (Heretic), Jude Law (Firebrand), and Dev Patel (Monkey Man) all securing nominations.

Local Talent Dominates the 2025 Longlist

The 2025 BAFTA longlist is a big win for UK talent, with local actors and filmmakers receiving strong recognition across various categories.

The race for Best Film is also shaping up to be intense, with contenders like Dune: Part Two, The Apprentice, and Wicked all in the running for the coveted title.

David Tennant will return to host the 2025 BAFTA ceremony, which will take place on 16 February at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London.

BAFTA CEO Jane Millichip has already praised Tennant’s wit and charm, noting that his presence helped make last year’s ceremony unforgettable.

A New Award Category at the BAFTAs

This year’s event will also feature the debut of a new category—Children’s & Family Film—celebrating films that resonate across generations.

This new category highlights the growing appreciation for family-friendly cinema, and it’s sure to be an exciting addition to the ceremony.

A Local Perspective: South African Viewers React

For Gladiator II fans in South Africa, Paul Mescal’s omission from the Leading Actor category is especially disappointing, given the film’s sweeping success.

Johannesburg-based film critic Themba Nkosi expressed his thoughts on the matter, saying, “Paul Mescal brought an emotional depth to Lucius that elevated the film.

It’s disappointing to see him left out.”

Awards Season Uncertainty

As we move deeper into awards season, the absence of Mescal highlights the unpredictability of the race.

However, Denzel Washington’s nomination is a cause for celebration, showing that Gladiator II has earned its place among the top contenders.

With the official BAFTA nominations set to be revealed on 15 January, all eyes will be on whether the film can convert its longlist recognition into wins.

Fans are eagerly hoping for a fair outcome, but only time will tell if Gladiator II can truly claim its place at the top.

What’s Your Take on the 2025 Leading Actor Race?

Who do you think deserves to win the Leading Actor award this year? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment or reaching out via email or WhatsApp.

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This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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