World War I odyssey "1917" won big at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards on Sunday, landing the best film prize and best director trophy for Sam Mendes, and putting it in line for potential Oscars glory next weekend.

The movie, which follows two British soldiers on a perilous mission across no man's land, scooped seven of the nine prizes it was nominated for at Britain's top film awards, including in cinematography, production design, sound and special visual effects.

"It's moving for me to get this in my hometown for the first time," said Mendes, the first British winner of the best director at BAFTA since Danny Boyle won for "Slumdog Millionaire" in 2009.

The film will compete at 10 categories including the best picture at Academy Award slated on February 10.

Highly-expected film "Joker," which led the way with 11 nominations including the best film and best director, ended up with three prizes: the best actor for Joaquin Phoenix, the best original score and the best casting.

Renee Zellweger claimed the best actress award for her portrayal of Judy Garland's late-life comeback tour in "Judy," marking a stunning renaissance for her own wide-ranging career.

Brad Pitt won best supporting actor for his role in Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon A Time In Hollywood," while Laura Dern was named the best supporting actress in Noah Baumbach's "Marriage Story."

South Korean director Bong Joon-ho's film "Parasite" picked up best original screenplay and best film not in the English language. The Palme d'Or winner has 6 Academy Award nominations including best picture, best directing and best international feature film.

The ceremony was hosted by TV chat show presenter Graham Norton, with Prince William and his wife Kate adding some royal glamour in his 10th year as BAFTA president.

(With input from AFP)