In a groundbreaking shift for the horror genre, the 2025 BAFTA nominations signal a changing tide in how horror films are being recognized by major awards bodies. This year's nominations feature prominent performances from Hugh Grant in "Heretic" and Demi Moore in "The Substance," marking a notable departure from the genre's historically limited recognition.
The horror genre has long faced challenges in gaining acceptance from prestigious awards organizations. While films like "The Silence of the Lambs" managed to break through - remaining the only horror film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture - such recognition has been rare.
Recent years have seen increasing frustration from actors whose performances in horror films have been overlooked. Mia Goth openly criticized the Oscars' "political" nature after her acclaimed performance in "Pearl" failed to receive a nomination in 2023. Similarly, Toni Collette's powerful work in "Hereditary" (2018) was notably absent from major awards consideration despite widespread critical praise.
However, the 2025 BAFTA nominations suggest a shifting perspective. Hugh Grant's nomination for Best Actor recognizes his chilling portrayal of an atheist who terrorizes Mormon missionaries in "Heretic." Meanwhile, Demi Moore's nomination for "The Substance," where she plays an aging aerobics instructor who takes a youth-restoring serum, follows her recent Golden Globe win.
Moore's recognition is particularly notable as it represents her first major acting award in a career spanning over four decades. "The Substance," which blends horror elements with commentary on Hollywood's beauty standards and aging, exemplifies how the genre has evolved to incorporate deeper social themes.
This recognition at the BAFTAs potentially paves the way for broader acceptance of horror films in the awards season, particularly those that combine genre elements with social commentary. As the industry continues to embrace what some call "elevated horror," these nominations might represent just the beginning of a new era for horror in prestigious film awards.