Oscars 2026: ‘One Battle After Another’ Dominates With 6 Wins as ‘Sinners’ Scores 4, Signaling a Political Turn in Hollywood’s Biggest Night

Paul Thomas Anderson’s dystopian thriller captures Best Picture and Best Director at the 98th Academy Awards, while Michael B. Jordan’s ‘Sinners’ and Warner Bros.’ blockbuster slate underscore a shifting power dynamic in the global film industry.

The 98th Academy Awards delivered a night of cinematic triumphs, political undertones and industry uncertainty, with “One Battle After Another,” Paul Thomas Anderson’s dystopian political thriller, emerging as the evening’s biggest winner.

The Warner Bros. release secured six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay, cementing Anderson’s film as one of the most influential cinematic statements of the year.

Standing close behind was “Sinners,” the Warner Bros. drama written by Ryan Coogler, which captured four Oscars, including Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan and Best Original Screenplay.

The dual victories capped a remarkable year for Warner Bros. Discovery, which has dominated both the box office and awards circuit—even as the studio faces a potential $111 billion merger with Paramount, a deal that could reshape Hollywood and trigger major layoffs across the entertainment sector.

Anderson’s Political Epic Captures Hollywood’s Top Prize

Set in a dystopian America governed by authoritarian rule, “One Battle After Another” resonated strongly with Academy voters.

During his acceptance speech, Anderson framed the film as both an apology and a warning.

“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,” Anderson said. “But also with the hope that their generation will bring back some common sense and decency.”

The film also earned Oscars for film editing, casting and supporting actor, with Sean Penn winning his third Academy Award for his portrayal of a racist soldier seeking entry into a secret society.

Penn, however, did not attend the ceremony, becoming one of the few Oscar winners absent from the broadcast.

Michael B. Jordan Wins Best Actor for ‘Sinners’

Another major highlight came when Michael B. Jordan won Best Actor for his role in “Sinners,” where he portrayed twin brothers running a Delta juke joint.

An emotional Jordan credited director Ryan Coogler, his longtime collaborator.

“You gave me the opportunity and space for me to be seen,” Jordan said.

The film also won Best Cinematography, marking a historic moment for Autumn Durald Arkapaw, who became the first woman ever to win the Oscar for cinematography.

Jessie Buckley Takes Best Actress for ‘Hamnet’

Irish actress Jessie Buckley captured Best Actress for her emotionally charged performance in “Hamnet,” portraying a mother grieving the death of her son.

Buckley dedicated her win to mothers everywhere.

“I’d like to dedicate this to the beautiful chaos of a mother’s heart,” she said. “We all come from a lineage of women who continue to create against all odds.”

Politics and Global Conflict Loom Over Hollywood

This year’s ceremony unfolded amid global geopolitical tensions, including escalating conflict involving Iran, which heightened security throughout Los Angeles.

Authorities increased protective measures following FBI alerts warning of a potential Iranian drone threat, leading to an unusually visible security presence around the Dolby Theatre.

Politics also shaped the evening’s speeches and commentary.

Presenters and winners repeatedly referenced international conflicts, democratic values and political leadership.

Actor Javier Bardem used his time on stage to call for peace in the Middle East, while documentary filmmakers behind “Mr. Nobody Against Putin” warned about the dangers of authoritarianism.

“You lose your country through countless small acts of complicity,” co-director David Borenstein said.

The film won Best Documentary Feature.

Hollywood Faces Economic Uncertainty

Beyond the awards, the Oscars unfolded at a moment of profound change for the entertainment industry.

The traditional film business continues to face pressure from streaming services, video games and digital platforms like YouTube, which increasingly dominate global entertainment consumption.

Box-office revenues remain well below pre-pandemic levels, forcing studios to rethink their business models.

At the same time, the proposed Warner Bros. Discovery–Paramount merger could trigger one of the largest consolidations in Hollywood history.

Industry analysts say the deal could reshape the global entertainment market and potentially lead to thousands of layoffs.

A Night Celebrating Global Collaboration

Despite the uncertainty, the Oscars’ host Conan O’Brien struck a hopeful tone.

“Thirty-one countries across six continents are represented tonight,” O’Brien said. “Every film we celebrate is the result of thousands of people working together to create something beautiful.”

He added that in chaotic times, art remains a powerful force for connection.

“We celebrate not because everything is perfect,” he said, “but because we hope for something better.”

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-- By Jasmine Thomas

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