Discover the UK's 2025 Video Game BAFTA Breakthroughs

2025 BAFTA Breakthrough UK games cohort — Image credit: BAFTA/Hollie Fernando

The lineup for the 2025 UK BAFTA Breakthroughs has been disclosed, featuring a stellar array of talent in the games sector. The group includes Kyle Banks, known for directing "Farewell North"; Stanley Baxton, the solo developer behind "Latex, Leather, Lipstick, Love, Lust"; Sally Beaumont, who lent her voice and script expertise to "Old Skies"; Mark Choi, the composer of "Empire of the Ants"; and Cara Ellison, a writer and narrative designer associated with "Ghost Town".

Sponsored by Netflix, the BAFTA Breakthrough UK program showcases 20 emerging creatives across film, games, and television in its twelfth year, curating a list of 'must watch' individuals. Globally, over 330 people have been highlighted by this prestigious initiative since its inception.

For detailed insights into each member of the games group, click the links provided below:

The BAFTA Breakthrough initiative extends various opportunities to the chosen creatives, including personalized meetings, career advice, and full voting privileges at the BAFTA Awards, alongside entry to various networking and screening events. The US cohort's unveiling is set for December.

Jane Millichip, CEO of BAFTA, expressed her excitement, stating, "It is an absolute pleasure to welcome this year's outstanding participants of BAFTA Breakthrough." She acknowledged Netflix for their ongoing support and dedication in fostering career pathways for diverse UK talent. Anne Mensah from Netflix reiterated this support, emphasizing the initiative's role in helping these talented individuals grow and enhance their professional networks.

Below is the comprehensive list of the 2025 UK BAFTA Breakthrough achievers:

Games

Cara Ellison (writer and narrative designer, Ghost Town)
Kyle Banks (director, Farewell North)
Mark Choi (composer, Empire of the Ants)
Sally Beaumont (lead voice actor/script consultant/additional writing, Old Skies)
Stanley Baxton (solo developer, Latex, Leather, Lipstick, Love, Lust)

Film

Akinola Davies Jr (director/co-writer, My Father’s Shadow)
Laura Carreira (director/writer, On Falling)
Marie-Elena Dyche (producer, Harvest)

Documentary

Meg Inman (co-director/producer, Atomic People)
Olaide Sadiq (director, Grenfell: Uncovered)
Pinny Grylls (director/writer/editor, Grand Theft Hamlet)

TV

Alderney Middleton (series producer, Maddie + Triggs)
Ellis Howard (performer, What It Feels Like for a Girl)
Jodie-Simone Howe (costume designer, Mr Loverman)
Nathaniel Price (writer/associate producer, Mr Loverman)
Matty Gurney (performer, Reunion)
Nathalie Pitters (director of photography, Brian and Maggie)
Owen Tooth (director, EastEnders)
Stephanie Taylor (composer, The Search For Nicola Bulley)
Vivian Eguridu (senior casting producer, Love is Blind UK Series 1)