The Australian horror film Bring Her Back emerged as the undisputed champion at the Gold Coast AACTA Awards on Friday night, clinching an impressive 10 awards out of 16 nominations. Directed by brothers Danny and Michael Philippou, the folk horror flick, which grossed $39.1 million on a modest $15 million budget, swept the film categories in a stunning display of cinematic excellence.
Major Wins for Bring Her Back
The film's dominance was evident as it secured top honours including Best Film, Best Direction, and Best Editing. Additionally, it claimed awards for Best Cinematography, Best Casting, Best Original Score, Best Sound, and Best Costume Design. The accolades extended to Best Hair and Makeup, with Sally Hawkins earning Best Lead Actress in Film for her compelling performance.
Starring emerging Australian actress Mischa Heywood as Cathy, the deceased 12-year-old daughter of Laura, the film has captivated audiences and critics alike, solidifying its status as a standout in the horror genre.
Other Notable Winners
Close behind was The Narrow Road to the Deep North, which garnered nine AACTA Award wins from 12 nominations. This television production asserted itself as the year's standout with victories in categories such as Best Cinematography in Television and Best Costume Design in Television. It also secured Best Direction in Drama or Comedy, along with awards for editing, original score, production design, and sound in television.
Jacob Elordi and Heather Mitchell were recognised for their performances, winning Best Lead Actor in a Drama and Best Supporting Actress in a Drama, respectively.
Additional Highlights
The Newsreader continued its award-winning legacy with four wins, including Best Drama Series, while Apple Cider Vinegar picked up Best Miniseries. Individual contributions were celebrated, with Sarah Snook receiving the Trailblazer Award and Clare Hughes landing the Brian Walsh Award.
Audience votes highlighted popular favourites, with season five of Stranger Things winning Favourite TV Show and Wicked: For Good taking Favourite Film. Homegrown talents Jacob Elordi, Margot Robbie, and Robert Irwin were voted Favourite Actor, Favourite Actress, and Favourite Media Personality, respectively.
In a poignant moment, the late actor Julian McMahon received a posthumous award at the annual ceremony, held at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) in Surfers Paradise. His wife, Kelly McMahon, accepted the AACTA Award for Best Supporting Actor in Film on his behalf for his role in The Surfer, honouring his enduring legacy in the industry.
