At the Gold Coast AACTA Awards on Friday night, the Australian horror film “Bring Her Back” stole the spotlight, clinching 10 awards from its 16 nominations.

Directed by Danny and Michael Philippou, the film, which earned $39.1 million despite a modest $15 million budget, swept the major film categories.

Among its accolades were Best Film, Best Direction, Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Casting, Best Original Score, Best Sound, and Best Costume Design.

The film also secured awards for Best Hair and Makeup, and Sally Hawkins was honored with Best Lead Actress in Film.

The cast includes rising Australian star Mischa Heywood, who portrayed Cathy, the late 12-year-old daughter of the character Laura.

Close on its heels was “The Narrow Road to the Deep North,” which took home nine AACTA Awards from its 12 nominations.

Australian film Bring Her Back emerged as the biggest winner at the AACTA Awards on Friday, landing 10 awards out of 16 nominations. Pictured: directors Danny and Michael Philippou

Starring in the film is emerging Australian actress Mischa Heywood who played Cathy, Laura’s deceased 12-year-old daughter

It asserted itself as the standout television production of the year with Best Cinematography in Television and Best Costume Design in Television.

Best Direction in Drama or Comedy was also included in its wins, as well as awards for Best Editing, Original Score, Production Design, and Sound in Television. 

Jacob Elordi and Heather Mitchell were awarded for their performances in the series with Best Lead Actor in a Drama and Best Supporting Actress in a Drama.

Elsewhere, The Newsreader continued its award-winning legacy with four wins, including Best Drama Series, while Apple Cider Vinegar picked up Best Miniseries.

Recognised outstanding individual contributions included Sarah Snook, who received the Trailblazer Award, and Clare Hughes, who landed the Brian Walsh Award. 

Audience votes saw season five of Stranger Things and Wicked: For Good walk away with Favourite TV Show and Favourite Film.

Meanwhile, homegrown talent Jacob Elordi, Margot Robbie and Robert Irwin landed Favourite Actor, Actress and Media Personality respectively. 

Late, great actor Julian McMahon also received a posthumous award at the annual ceremony, which is held at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) in Surfers Paradise. 

Recognised outstanding individual contributions included Sarah Snook, who received the Trailblazer Award

Kelly McMahon accepted the AACTA Award for Best Supporting Actor in Film on behalf of her late husband Julian McMahon for his role in The Surfer

The Charmed star died of cancer aged 56 in Florida on July 2, 2025. The Surfer was his last movie appearance before his death. Pictured at the movie’s SXSW premiere last year

The Charmed star, who died of cancer aged 56 in Florida on July 2, 2025, received the AACTA Award for Best Supporting Actor in Film for his role in The Surfer.

The Australian psychological thriller premiered at Cannes in 2024 and was released in 2025, with Julian attending the SXSW premiere just months before his death. 

It was the final movie he appeared in before his passing. His widow Kelly accepted the AACTA Award on his behalf.

AACTA CEO Damian Trewhella has said this year’s AACTA Awards ‘recognise the remarkable depth and diversity of Australian screen talent’. 

‘From critically-acclaimed productions to audience favourites,’ he continued. 

‘The winners showcase the strength of our industry and the stories that continue to resonate locally and globally. 

‘We’re thrilled to be able to bring the Australian screen sector together on the Gold Coast.’