BIFA (British Independent Film Awards) has announced the longlist for Netflix’s Breakthrough Performance Award. Known for spotting tomorrow’s stars today, the highly anticipated longlist for 2023 features outstanding performances from some of the most talked about independent films in the UK. This category has been nominated and won by Ben Whishaw, Jamie Bell, Naomi Ackie, Hayley Atwell, John Boyega, Florence Pugh, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Letitia Wright in the past.
BIFA will launch a development and support programme for performers longlisted in this category in partnership with We Are Bridge. Founded in 2018, We Are Bridge began as an aftercare programme for the cast of Rocks, led by a collective of filmmakers behind the BIFA and BAFTA-winning film. WAB has evolved into a leading industry body dedicated to preserving new and emerging talent’s legacy in the years since.
As part of the six-month programme, participants will receive career development, well-being, casting, financial literacy, and networking opportunities. A safeguarding industry training session will also be presented to help those looking after new on-screen talent.
The final five nominees will be announced Thursday, 2 November. Winners will be revealed at the 26th BIFA ceremony on Sunday, 3 December.
Breakthrough Performance sponsored by Netflix
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