Stephen Fry is thrilled the "magnificent’ ‘Grand Budapest Hotel’ has the most nominations at the EE British Academy Film Awards.
The 57-year-old actor will once again host the ceremony this year and is very pleased the Wes Anderson comedy movie is leading the pack with 11 nods because it is one of his favourite films of the past 12 months.
In an interview on ‘Wake Up London’ – which is broadcast on satellite channel London Live (Freeview 8, YouView 8, Sky 117 and Virgin 159) – he said: "The big surprise for me I suppose, and it was a delightful one, was ‘Budapest Hotel’. It is a magnificent film, beautifully shot, magnificently performed, wonderfully directed. The reason why I was surprised is that it was released so long ago. A lot of people think, ‘Oh you have to in the awards season and the BAFTA voters have no memory, and will never vote for a film that earlier in the year.’ Well this film was earlier in the year and it’s swept the board, which is fantastic news for filmmakers everywhere."
Stephen is very excited that so many British actors have been recognised for their work and although he feels uncomfortable as the host revealing his choices to win he has singled out several stars for special mentions.
He said: "I don’t think it’s right for me to big up a particular film or person … but I’m delighted that so many British actors and actresses have been really well represented. Imelda Staulton for ‘Pride’, and Rosamond Pike for her amazing performance in ‘Gone Girl’ (are two). Obviously Benedict Cumberbatch and Eddie Redmayne – who weren’t that much of a surprise perhaps – but that shouldn’t take away how wonderful their performances were.
"I thought ‘Foxcatcher’ and ‘Birdman’ were marvellous films, as was ‘Nightcrawler’ – Jake Gyllenhaal’s performance was fantastic. And in ‘Birdman’ not just the wonderful Michael Keaton but also Emma Stone was superb in it."
The EE British Academy Film Awards take place on February 8 at the Royal Opera House in London’s Covent Garden and will be broadcast exclusively on BBC One and BBC One HD.
Stephen Fry pleased with Budapest Hotel BAFTA success
