BREAKING: The British Academy has just announced the **2025 BAFTA Breakthrough U.K.** cohort, featuring **20 emerging creatives** in film, TV, and gaming. Among them is **Akinola Davies Jr.**, whose directorial debut, **“My Father’s Shadow,”** is making waves after a notable screening at **Cannes**.
The film received a **special mention** from the **Un Certain Regard jury** and is set to represent the **U.K.** at the **Oscars**. It is also a frontrunner at this weekend’s **British Independent Film Awards**. This recognition marks a pivotal moment for Davies, signaling his ascent in the industry.
The BAFTA Breakthrough initiative, supported by **Netflix** since **2019**, aims to propel creatives on the brink of significant success. Participants benefit from tailored opportunities, including one-to-one meetings, career guidance, and full BAFTA voting membership, along with access to exclusive industry events.
Jane Millichip, CEO of BAFTA, expressed her enthusiasm: “It is an absolute pleasure to welcome this year’s outstanding participants of BAFTA Breakthrough. For **12 years**, this program has empowered talents to navigate the complex corridors of the screen arts.”
The **2025 cohort** includes a diverse array of talent:
– **Alderney Middleton** – series producer (“Maddie + Triggs”)
– **Cara Ellison** – writer/narrative designer (“Ghost Town”)
– **Ellis Howard** – performer (“What It Feels Like for a Girl”)
– **Jodie-Simone Howe** – costume designer (“Mr Loverman”)
– **Kyle Banks** – director (“Farewell North”)
– **Laura Carreira** – director/writer (“On Falling”)
– **Marie-Elena Dyche** – producer (“Harvest”)
– **Mark Choi** – composer (“Empire of the Ants”)
– **Owen Tooth** – director (“EastEnders”)
This year’s cohort exemplifies the range and depth of new talent in the U.K. film and television landscape. The full list also highlights **Stanley Baxton**, **Sally Beaumont**, and **Vivian Eguridu**, among others.
In the past, over **330 individuals** have participated in the Breakthrough program, which has included notable alumni like **Jessie Buckley**, **Letitia Wright**, and **Josh O’Connor**. Their success stories underscore the impact of this initiative on shaping the future of the industry.
WHAT’S NEXT: BAFTA North America will announce the **Breakthrough U.S.** talent in **December**, expanding the initiative’s reach and influence across the Atlantic. As the film community watches, Akinola Davies Jr. and his fellow cohort members prepare for a transformative year ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops and the **British Independent Film Awards** unfold this weekend. The spotlight is on, and the future looks bright for these rising stars.
