For Sama, the acclaimed documentary about life under siege in the Syrian city of Aleppo, has unexpectedly triumphed at the British independent film awards, winning the top prize, best British independent film, as well as best documentary and best director for Waad al-Kateab and Edward Watts.
For Sama won a total of four Bifas, including best editing – previously announced with other Bifa “craft” awards on 15 November.
Described by the Guardian’s Mike McCahill as a film to “break your heart and sear your soul”, For Sama is a chronicle filmed by Syrian activist-director al-Kateab as Aleppo is targeted during the country’s ongoing civil war.
Bait, the Cornwall-set drama filmed in black and white, won best breakthrough producers for Kate Byers and Linn Waite.