The 2026 Aacta Awards were a night to remember, with thrilling wins and surprises that left the Australian film and TV industry buzzing! But here's the real shocker: the horror film 'Bring Her Back' swept the awards, claiming 10 wins out of 16 nominations. This gripping thriller, crafted by the talented Adelaide brothers Danny and Michael Philippou, tells the story of a sinister foster mother and has now surpassed their previous success with 'Talk to Me' in 2024.
The film's dominance was evident, taking home awards for best direction, best film, and best leading actress for the incredible Sally Hawkins. But that's not all—it conquered almost every technical category, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. From cinematography to costume design, 'Bring Her Back' left its mark.
And now, let's talk about Jacob Elordi, who has been on a remarkable awards streak. Fresh from his Critics' Choice win for 'Frankenstein,' he claimed the best lead actor award for his powerful performance in 'The Narrow Road to the Deep North.' But the accolades didn't stop there! Elordi also won the audience choice award for favorite Australian actor, solidifying his status as a fan favorite.
But here's where it gets controversial: Netflix's highly anticipated miniseries 'Apple Cider Vinegar,' based on the scandalous story of wellness fraudster Belle Gibson, seemed poised to sweep the awards with a staggering 20 nominations. Yet, it only managed to secure two wins. Was it a case of high expectations or a reflection of the competition's strength? You decide!
The Aacta Awards also celebrated other outstanding productions. The TV adaptation of Richard Flanagan's novel, 'The Narrow Road to the Deep North,' won nine awards, including best supporting actress for Heather Mitchell. ABC's 'The Newsreader' concluded its run with four wins, while SBS's docudrama 'The People vs Robodebt' took home two awards, recognizing its impact and the involvement of Guardian reporter Christopher Knaus.
The ceremony, hosted by the hilarious Celeste Barber, featured an impressive lineup of presenters. From the 'Succession' duo Sarah Snook and Brian Cox to Stranger Things' Dacre Montgomery, the event was a star-studded affair. Snook, already a West End and Broadway sensation, received the trailblazer award, with her co-star Nicholas Braun hinting at a potential fifth season of 'Succession.'
As the night unfolded, veteran filmmaker Bruce Beresford received the prestigious Longford Lyell lifetime achievement award, honoring his remarkable career. With a star-studded tribute from Morgan Freeman and other industry icons, the ceremony celebrated the very best of Australian cinema and television.
