The 14th AACTA International Awards, a celebration of excellence in global film and television, unfolded with a series of standout moments that highlighted the best of the industry. The ceremony, organized by the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts, saw the biopic Better Man, a film about Robbie Williams, emerge as the night’s big winner. Directed by Australian filmmaker Michael Gracey, Better Man took home two prestigious awards: Best Film and Best Direction. This victory added to the film’s already impressive streak, as it had previously swept nine awards at the domestic AACTA Awards. The film’s success underscores its resonance with audiences and critics alike, solidifying its place as a standout production in 2023.
In the acting categories, the AACTA International Awards celebrated a mix of seasoned talent and rising stars. Nicole Kidman, a longtime fixture in Hollywood, continued her triumphant run with her fourth AACTA International Award. She won Best Lead Actress for her powerful portrayal in Babygirl. Her performance has been widely praised, and this award further cements her reputation as one of the most versatile and compelling actresses of her generation. On the other hand, Zoe Saldaña, fresh from her Golden Globe victory, added another trophy to her collection, winning Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Pérez. Her win highlights her ability to excel in diverse roles, from blockbuster franchises to intimate dramas.
The male acting categories were equally competitive, with both established stars and emerging talents vying for recognition. Ralph Fiennes delivered a commanding performance in Conclave, earning him the Best Lead Actor award. His ability to embody complex characters with depth and nuance has been a hallmark of his career, and this latest accolade is a testament to his enduring talent. Guy Pearce, meanwhile, strengthened his Oscar campaign with a Best Supporting Actor win for The Brutalist. His portrayal of a multifaceted character has garnered critical acclaim, and this award positions him as a strong contender in the upcoming awards season.
On the writing front, Jesse Eisenberg’s A Real Pain made waves by securing the Best Screenplay award. Known for his sharp wit and insightful storytelling, Eisenberg’s work has resonated with audiences and critics, and this win underscores the film’s potential as a contender in the Oscar race. The screenplay’s ability to blend humor with poignant commentary has been a key factor in its success, and this recognition further highlights its impact.
The television categories also saw some exciting wins, with Shōgun claiming the Best Drama Series award. This historical epic, known for its sweeping narratives and intricate characters, has captivated audiences and critics alike. Its victory reflects the growing appetite for high-quality, engaging storytelling in the world of television. On the comedy front, The Bear took home the Best Comedy Series award, solidifying its reputation as one of the most original and hilarious shows of the year. The series, which follows the chaotic world of a restaurant kitchen, has been praised for its sharp writing and stellar ensemble cast.
In the acting categories for television, Larry David was recognized for his final season of Curb Your Enthusiasm, winning Best Actor in a Series. A comedy legend, David’s return to the role that made him a household name was met with widespread acclaim, and this award serves as a fitting tribute to his career. Elizabeth Debicki, meanwhile, won Best Actress in a Series for her portrayal of Princess Diana in The Crown. Her performance has been lauded for its sensitivity and depth, and this award adds to her growing list of accolades, including a recent Golden Globe win.
The 14th AACTA International Awards served as a reminder of the incredible talent and creativity that continues to drive the film and television industry forward. From established icons like Nicole Kidman and Ralph Fiennes to rising stars like Zoe Saldaña and Elizabeth Debicki, the ceremony celebrated a wide range of performances that have left a lasting impact on audiences. As the awards season continues to unfold, these wins position several films and series as strong contenders for future accolades, including the highly anticipated Oscars. The AACTA International Awards not only honor the best of the past year but also highlight the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for the world of entertainment.
