For 20 years, the Newport Beach Film Festival, one of the fast-growing luxury lifestyle film festivals in the United States, has included a dedicated UK component during its 10-day program. Starting in 2015, the film festival and Visit Newport Beach partnered to elevate the connection to the UK industry by honoring talent via the Newport Beach UK Honours held in London just ahead of the BAFTA Awards. This year’s festivities were held at the Rosewood Hotel in Holburn. Honors categories include Arts Champions, Breakout Talent, Artists of Distinction, Icons, and Outstanding Achievement in Global Cinema.

In addition, starting in 2017, Variety, the entertainment industry bible, partnered to use the opportunity to present its annual list of 10 Brits to Watch.

A star-studded celebration of the best of UK talent from film, television, and music, the Newport Beach Film Festival kicked off BAFTA weekend with the Newport Beach UK Honours on Feb. 07.