From a kilt-clad David Tennat running around with a pooch to Hanna Waddingham’s stunning rendition of Time after Time, the 77th British Academy Film Awards held in London on Sunday shimmered with spectacular moments, notwithstanding a dash of disappointment at the late Friends star Matthew Perry’s exclusion from the award ceremony’s In Memoriam segment. Here’s what caught our attention.

David Tennant’s canine comedy

The night kicked off with a bang as Scottish actor David Tennant, known for his role as the Doctor in BBC’s Doctor Who, showcased his comedic talents as the host of the evening. He humorously narrated his obligation to dog-sit for Michael Sheen’s canine companion, Bark Ruffalo. After failed attempts to delegate the task to others, including Dame Judy Dench and Tom Hiddleston, a kilt-clad Tennant surprised everyone by bringing the small white pup along to the ceremony and discovered Sheen in the front row.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s sensational performance

One of the highlights of the evening was Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s fiery on-stage performance of Murder on the Dance Floor from the film Saltburn. The movie scene, which featured a naked Barry Keoghan prowling about a mansion to the catchy tune, had become a talking point when the film released. Recreating the magic, minus a naked Barry, Ellis-Bextor’s live rendition set the stage on fire, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Hannah Waddingham's emotional In Memoriam

The emotional depth of the evening reached its peak during Hannah Waddingham's poignant In Memoriam segment. She paid tribute to the late alumni of British cinema lost in 2023, delivering a soul-stirring rendition of Time After Time. Waddingham’s powerful voice resonated through the auditorium, commemorating the great talents that had left an indelible mark on the industry. However, there was a note of consternation as the late Friends star Matthew Perry was noticeably absent from the In Memoriam segment.

Samantha Morton's BAFTA Fellowship speech

The pinnacle of the evening came with English actress-director Samantha Morton being honoured with the BAFTA Fellowship, the highest honour bestowed by the British Academy. Tom Cruise, her co-star from Minority Report, paid tribute to her in a heartfelt video clip. Morton, who grew up in foster care, used the platform to draw attention to children facing poverty. In a deeply moving moment, she dedicated the award to every child in care, emphasising the transformative power of film in her own life.

“Film changed my life, it transformed me and it led me here today,” she said, her words resonating with the audience. As Morton choked up, the crowd joined her in a moment of shared emotion, making her acceptance of the BAFTA Fellowship a powerful and unforgettable conclusion to an extraordinary night.