
BAFTA Opens Entries for 2027 Film Awards with Expanded Longlists and New AI Guidelines
Entries for the 2027 EE BAFTA Film Awards are now officially open, introducing key updates to voting procedures and category expansions designed to celebrate creative excellence. The 80th edition of the awards will feature a larger longlist for Outstanding British Film and new guidance regarding the use of generative artificial intelligence in filmmaking.
RMN Stars Awards Desk
New Delhi | August 4, 2026
2027 EE BAFTA Film Awards Entry Rules and Industry Updates
BAFTA has officially confirmed the categories, eligibility requirements, and voting rules for the 2027 EE BAFTA Film Awards, marking the beginning of the countdown to the 80th edition of the prestigious ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 21 February 2027, in London.
Expanded Recognition for British Filmmaking
In a significant move to better showcase the depth and range of domestic talent, the longlist for the Outstanding British Film category has been expanded from 15 to 20 titles. While the number of final nominations remains at 10, this expansion allows for a wider pool of British films to be considered by both the membership and the nominating jury. Entrants are now required to use an interactive points tracker to assess eligibility for this category.
Leveling the Playing Field: BAFTA expands the Outstanding British Film longlist to 20 titles, ensuring more home-grown talent receives the recognition it deserves.
Voting Changes in Performance Categories
To manage the high volume of entries in the four acting categories, which often exceed 700 performances, BAFTA is broadening participation in the voting process. For the 2027 awards, members of the Casting Chapter will join the Acting Chapter to vote during the longlisting and nominations rounds. This change is intended to bring additional industry expertise to the recognition of acting talent.

New Guidelines for Artificial Intelligence
BAFTA has updated its rulebook to clarify its stance on Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), reaffirming that the awards are intended to reward human creative achievement. While tools may be used, BAFTA reserves the right to request information regarding the extent of human involvement in any work where AI was utilized. This update ensures that the awards continue to honor individuals for “outstanding human achievement in originating, shaping and realising” artistic outcomes.
Human Creativity First: New 2027 rules clarify BAFTA’s stance on AI, emphasizing that awards are reserved for outstanding human achievement in film.
Accessibility and Industry Standards
Reflecting a commitment to inclusivity, BAFTA now requires all films to have descriptive subtitled versions available immediately upon being published on the BAFTA View platform. Furthermore, the academy is strengthening industry standards by aligning with the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA). Entrants are expected to declare their commitment to safe and inclusive working environments, with the goal of making these standards mandatory in future years.
Category Updates and Key Dates
The “Children’s and Family Film” category has been renamed Family Film to more accurately reflect its intergenerational appeal. The eligibility and voting processes for this category remain unchanged.
The 2027 Timeline:
- 22 July 2026: Entries open
- 4 December 2026: Round One voting begins
- 7 January 2027: Longlists published and Round Two voting begins
- 19 January 2027: Nominations announced
- 26 January 2027: Round Three voting begins
- 21 February 2027: 2027 EE BAFTA Film Awards ceremony
