BAFTA changes award rules so that only films fighting for diversity can win
They will have to meet certain criteria
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.After consulting with the BFI and leading film producers, BAFTA has decided to introduce eligibility criteria to its Outstanding British Film and Outstanding Debut by a British, Director or Producer award categories in the hope of increasing diversity in the industry.
“This significant change demonstrates BAFTA’s intention to take a leading role, together with our key partners, in increasing the representation of under-represented groups in front of and behind the camera,” the charity said.
In order to compete for the awards, productions will, from 2019, have to demonstrate that they have made effort to boost diversity in two of the four following areas:
• On screen representation, themes and narratives
• Project leadership and creative practitioners
• Industry access and opportunities
• Opportunities for diversity in audience development
“Under-represented groups in the film industry include people from minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, women and LGBT. It also includes people from lower socio-economic groups,” BAFTA added.
“In certain categories productions based or set outside London can also count towards achieving the standards.”
Film4 and BBC films have already agreed to adopt the standards.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments