BAFTA has announced that Clare Binns, the creative director of Picturehouse Cinemas and Picturehouse Entertainment, and a “driving force in the distribution of films in the UK”, will be presented with the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award at the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards next month.
One of BAFTA’s highest accolades, the special award is presented to an individual or organisation that has made a significant and inspiring contribution to film through a particular project or work – with a focus on recognising individuals or organisations who might not otherwise be eligible in BAFTA’s competitive awards’ categories.
BAFTA said: “Over the last four decades and counting, Clare has built an exceptional reputation amongst the British film industry for championing diverse and fiercely independent work on big screens around the UK.
“This has included showcasing filmmakers including Danny Boyle, Francis Lee, Steve McQueen, Shola Amoo, Charlotte Regan and Alice Winocour, and films including Deerskin, The Wife, Taste of Things, The Last Tree, Monster and God’s Own Country.
“Clare has spearheaded countless initiatives to bring new audiences into cinemas and put them at the heart of their local communities, such as programming relaxed, parent and baby, over 60s and dog-friendly screenings.
“She has also overseen an increase in Picturehouse’s outreach, including collaborations with Brixton Soup Kitchen and Poetic Unity at The Ritzy Cinema.
“Additionally, under her leadership, Refuge, the UK’s leading charity for victims of domestic violence, became Picturehouse’s charity partner, regularly holding fundraisers and raising awareness of their work.”
Emily Stillman, BAFTA chair of the Film Committee, added: “Clare Binns’ impact on the British film industry is profound – she is a hugely talented and beloved visionary.
“Clare’s unwavering commitment to bring a diverse range of storytelling to the big screen, her belief in the power of cinema, and her ongoing work championing emerging independent filmmakers is inspirational.
“We look forward to presenting Clare with BAFTA’s Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award next month.”
“I was totally blown away when I heard that I was getting this award,” Binns revealed. “I’m so thrilled not just for myself but for everyone who has worked with me throughout my career and for those who continue to support the mission to welcome audiences into local cinemas across the UK, who are just getting on with the job of giving film the home it deserves.”
Previous Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema recipients, first awarded in 1979, include MediCinema, Andy Serkis, June Givanni, Stephen Woolley and Elizabeth Karlson, the National Film and Television School, Curzon, Angels Costumes and BBC Films.
The 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards ceremony will be hosted by Alan Cumming on Sunday 22 February, and will be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK as well as a host of further international broadcasters to be announced.
Viewers will also be able to find all the action from the red carpet, ceremony and beyond across BAFTA’s socials.
