Paul Mescal Shares His Top Movie Experience of the Year (and Asks Director to "Get in Touch!")

The British Independent Film Awards brought together a dazzling array of talent on Sunday night at the Roundhouse in Camden, marking a highlight of the U.K. indie film scene. Leading the nights accolades were Harry Lighton for Pillion, Robert Aramayo of I Swear, and breakout star Jay Lycurgo from Steve. The award for Best International Feature went to Joachim Triers Sentimental Value, while Akinola Davies Jr. earned the Best Director honor.

The red carpet showcased numerous prominent figures including Harris Dickinson, Alexander Skarsgard, Ruth Wilson, Carey Mulligan, Harry Melling, Frank Dillane, Tom Blyth, and David Jonsson, either as nominees or to represent the British film industry.

The ensemble cast of Alex Garlands A24 production Warfarefeaturing Joseph Quinn, Will Poulter, Kit Connor, and Charles Meltonattended to accept the Best Ensemble Performance award, with the film securing a total of four wins, rivaling Pillion.

Emotions ran high when Paul Mescal made an unexpected appearance to present the Richard Harris Award to his Hamnet co-star Emily Watson, recognizing her remarkable contribution to British cinema. Mescal, who previously won the Supporting Performance BIFA in 2023 for All of Us Strangers, shared with The Hollywood Reporter his favorite film experience of the year: One Battle After Another. He praised Paul Thomas Andersons direction and Leonardo DiCaprios performance, calling it his favorite of the actors career. When asked about collaborating with Anderson, Mescal humorously affirmed his eagerness to work with him.

Watson, visibly moved, accepted the award while Mescal highlighted her generosity and talent. In her acceptance speech, Watson encouraged fellow artists to support younger colleagues, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and building relationships within the industry.

For a full list of winners at the 2025 British Independent Film Awards, readers can refer to the official roundup.

Author: Sophia Brooks