Ken Loach’s film about Syrian refugees in running for a BAFTA 

The film is written by Paul Laverty. (Supplied)
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Updated 06 January 2024
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Ken Loach’s film about Syrian refugees in running for a BAFTA 

DUBAI: The British Academy of Film and Television Arts has unveiled the results of the first round of voting across all 24 categories for the 2024 BAFTA Film Awards. Veteran director Ken Loach’s Syrian refugee drama “The Old Oak” is on the longlist for Outstanding British Film. 

The film, written by Paul Laverty, tells the tale of a pub landlord, TJ, forming a bond with Yara, a Syrian refugee in a small town in the north-east of England, and explores the tensions that arise when refugees — including Lara’s family — are housed in the tight-knit community.

“The Old Oak,” which stars Dave Turner, Elba Mari, Trevor Fox, and Joe Armstrong, is a co-production between the UK, France and Belgium.

The final BAFTA nominations will be revealed on Jan. 18, and the awards ceremony will take place on Feb. 18 in London.


Georgina Rodriguez closes out the year with family time, public appearances

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Georgina Rodriguez closes out the year with family time, public appearances

  • Partner of Ronaldo shares photos of Christmas, holidays
  • Speculation they will celebrate New Year’s Day in the UAE

DUBAI: Argentine model Georgina Rodriguez has been marking the end of the year with family in the region, sharing moments from public appearances alongside her longtime partner, Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as quieter holiday time together.

One of those appearances included her attendance at the Globe Soccer Dubai Awards 2025, where she showed her support for Ronaldo alongside his eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.

The footballer was awarded Best Middle East Player 2025, marking his third consecutive win in the category.

For the ceremony, Rodriguez opted for a sleek, body-skimming black evening gown featuring a high neckline and long fitted sleeves, detailed with subtle, evenly spaced embellishments.

She wore her hair long and straight, pairing the look with soft, glowing makeup. The ensemble was completed with statement diamond jewelry, including stud earrings, a sparkling watch and her large oval-cut engagement ring.

Now in its 16th edition, the Globe Soccer Awards ceremony was held at Atlantis The Royal. Ronaldo received the award from Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.

After accepting the trophy, Ronaldo said he was focused on continuing his career and adding to his achievements.

“I want to carry on going. You know what my goal is. I want to win more trophies and I want to reach the number that you all know,” he said. “I will reach that number for sure, if there are no injuries, inshaAllah.”

Currently on 956 career goals following a recent brace against Al-Akhdoud, Ronaldo is now 44 goals away from reaching the 1,000-goal milestone.

Ahead of the event in the UAE, fan spotted Rodriguez with Ronaldo in a casual moment walking at Atlantis. She wore jeans paired with a black top, leather jacket, beige hat and black heels.

The model also shared a short video offering a glimpse into how she celebrated Christmas, showing an intimate, family-focused gathering at home.

The family — including Ronaldo, Rodriguez, Ronaldo Jr., Eva Maria, Mateo, Alana Martina and Bella Esmeralda — wore matching pajamas and were seen dancing together toward the Christmas tree in the clip.

Fans are still waiting to see where the family will celebrate New Year’s Eve, after spending the occasion in Dubai last year. This has led to speculation that they may remain in the city for the celebrations.