Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” took home the coveted Best Picture award at the 98th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 16, 2026, marking a significant win for the acclaimed director.
The film ultimately secured six Oscars throughout the evening, including Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay for Anderson, who had previously never won an Academy Award. The ceremony also recognized the film with the Oscars’ first trophy for best casting and Best Supporting Actor, though Sean Penn was absent to accept the honor.
Accepting the screenplay award, Anderson shared a poignant message, stating, “I wrote this movie for my kids to say sorry for the housekeeping mess that we left in this world — we’re handing off to them,” adding, “But also with the encouragement that they will be the generation that hopefully brings us some common sense and decency.”
Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners” also made a splash, earning several accolades, including a historic win for Autumn Durald Arkapaw, who became the first female director of photography to win an Oscar. The film, a Jim Crow-set vampire tale, received a record 16 nominations. Arkapaw celebrated the moment by urging all the women in the room to stand, saying, “I don’t sense like I get here without you guys….”
Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” also garnered recognition, taking home three Oscars. The awards cap off a strong awards season for the filmmakers, solidifying their positions as leading voices in contemporary cinema.
“Valor Sentimental” from Norway was awarded Best International Feature Film. The ceremony, which featured a brief appearance by Jimmy Kimmel, also included political commentary, reflecting the ongoing cultural conversations surrounding the industry.
