Hollywood musical “La La Land” picked up five British Bafta movie awards on Sunday, at a glitzy London ceremony charged with filmmakers’ political messages.
The dreamy tribute to the heyday of Hollywood musicals picked up gongs for best film, best director and best actress, paving the way for Oscar success later this month.
“La La Land” also won in the cinematography and original music categories, while it lost out in six of its 11 nominations at the ceremony at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
Accepting the award for best director — beating off competition from the likes of Ken Loach and Tom Ford — Damien Chazelle said it was an “incredible honor” and a pleasure to be there along with those behind the film.
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) award for leading actress went to Emma Stone, who plays an aspiring actress in “La La Land” and took on a political tone in her acceptance speech.
“In a time that is so divisive I think it’s really special we were all able to come together tonight, thanks to Bafta, and to celebrate the positive,” she said.
A throwback to Hollywood’s Golden Age, “La La Land” took home seven Golden Globes in January and has been nominated for 14 Oscars.
The best actor Bafta award went on Sunday to Casey Affleck, for his role in the American drama “Manchester By The Sea,” beating Ryan Gosling who was nominated for “La La Land.”
Guests braving the cold to walk the red carpet included Britain’s Prince William and his wife Kate, whose London home Kensington Palace is close to the Royal Albert Hall.

Source: Arab News