Emerald Fennell’s feature-length directorial debut, Promising Young Woman has been killing it this awards season. And now, one of the most awarded features of the year has earned the title of Best Picture at the 10th Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA). Carey Mulligan was also given the Best Actress award for her performance in the film.
“Today’s results are a testament to the depth and excellence being produced globally in film and TV,” said AACTA CEO Damian Trewhella. “It is particularly special to see Australian powerhouse Margot Robbie behind the scenes on such an important piece of work with Promising Young Woman taking out Best Film. To have started her career in Australia on a soap like Neighbours to now cementing her position as one of Hollywood’s most significant and influential storytellers is incredible.”
The film, which is currently available to rent and is still playing in some theaters, stars Mulligan as a woman looking to avenge her best friend who was a victim of rape. Promising Young Woman has received high praise from both critics and audiences. The film earned a 90% certified fresh critic score with 331 critic reviews and 87% audience score with over 250 ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.
Chloé Zhao became the first woman director to receive the AACTA International Award for Best Direction, and Aaron Sorkin took home Best Screenplay for The Trial of the Chicago 7 alongside Sacha Baron Cohen, who received the Best Supporting Actor award for his work on the same film.