On one side, there were the industry’s biggest stars, turning the Bafta red carpet black in their visible support of the Time’s Up movement; on the other, the traditionalists insisting the Duchess of Cambridge could not be drawn into a global protest about sexual harassment and gender equality.

On Sunday night, the Duchess attempted to walk the diplomatic line, eschewing an unofficial all-black dress code to see the cream of British cinema honoured at the Royal Albert Hall.

Her choice of a dark green Jenny Packham dress with a black ribbon appeared to please and offend in equal measure, apparently designed to avoid the scandal of a future queen making an overt statement that could be perceived as political.

The movement did not, however, go unnoticed; instead of sending a message through clothing, the Duke acknowledged it in writing.

In a foreword in the ceremony’s programme, he mentioned steps taken to protect those in the industry, stating: “Levelling the playing field and ensuring a safe, professional working environment for aspiring actors, filmmakers and craft practitioners – regardless of their background and circumstances – is vital to ensure film remains accessible and exciting for all.