BLENHEIM Palace has played a starring role in a new short film about the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA).

Critically acclaimed poet and producer, Hussain Manawer, directed and performed in the film, which was made to celebrate the creative arts in 2020, and each of the British BAFTA nominees.

The four-and-a-half-minute film was shot on location at Blenheim Palace, both in the palace itself and within its impressive grounds.

The location was chosen as a “beacon of British significance”, with dressing by Dior.

Emily Spencer, head of operations at Blenheim Palace, said: “We were delighted to have been chosen as the location for Hussain’s film celebrating the creative arts.

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“He is an amazing talent and a truly inspirational British poet.

She added: “Over the years, Blenheim has played a starring role in a host of films from James Bond and Harry Potter, to Cinderella and The BFG, and we understand how important the creative arts are to the nation.”

The film addresses the struggle of the global pandemic and the role film has played throughout it.

It mentions 50 BAFTA nominees and thanks those from across the British film industry.

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Mr Manawer said: “Film, more than ever in the past year, has become our window to the world. It’s our gateway, our portal, our form of escape and in many respects, our therapy.

“I wrote this piece because I wanted to express my gratitude and admiration to all those who give so much to provide us with entertainment, but who also put voices to our pain, a character to our struggles and a home to our laughs.”

He added: “The power of the arts is a vital gift in these exceptionally testing times and I will forever do my bit to keep the flame alive.

“Best of luck to all the incredible nominees at this year’s BAFTA’s and I hope you keep creating magic forever.”