On Wednesday, February 15th, actor Cillian Murphy awarded filmmaker Christopher Nolan with the prestigious BFI Fellowship in a ceremony full with adoration and respect. The British Film Institute’s award honours individuals who have made outstanding contributions to cinema.

Murphy, who has worked with Nolan on several projects, including the Dark Knight trilogy and Dunkirk, gave a heartfelt introduction, describing Nolan as “a one-in-a-million, a true legend, one of the greatest directors in the world.”

He complimented Nolan’s steadfast commitment to his vision, his ability to push boundaries and engage viewers with immersive storytelling, and his passion to preserve the cinematic experience.

Nolan, visibly moved by the recognition and Murphy’s words, thanked the BFI and his collaborators. He recognised the value of film as a community experience, saying, “The magic of cinema happens in those darkened rooms, where strangers come together and share a dream.”

He also emphasised the need of nurturing future generations of filmmakers, advocating for sustained investment in cinema education and preservation.

This prestigious award joins Nolan’s already impressive list of honours, which includes four Academy Award nominations and numerous international awards. His unusual approach, which combines complicated storytelling, inventive visuals, and practical effects, has earned him a devoted following and critical acclaim.

News of the BFI Fellowship resonated extensively among the film business, with many important figures rushing to social media to congratulate Nolan. Director Edgar Wright tweeted, “Huge congrats to the brilliant Christopher Nolan on his BFI Fellowship – thoroughly deserved!” Film critic Mark Kermode remarked, “Delighted to see Christopher Nolan receive the BFI Fellowship – a towering figure in contemporary cinema.”

Nolan’s latest film, the highly anticipated biopic Oppenheimer, is currently in post-production and is set to be released in July 2023.