The 2026 Academy Awards: 'One Battle After Another' Earns More Than a Few Small Oscars - The Big Picture Recap

Podcast: The Big Picture

Published: 2026-03-16

Duration: 1 hr 29 min

Summary

The 98th Academy Awards saw 'One Battle After Another' dominate with six wins, including Best Picture, Director, and Screenplay. The ceremony highlighted the generational shift in filmmaking, with emotional speeches and notable wins by acclaimed directors and actors.

What Happened

The 98th Academy Awards celebrated 'One Battle After Another,' which secured six Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director for Sean Penn, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Paul Thomas Anderson. This marks a significant milestone for Anderson, who has been a beloved figure in cinema for decades but until now had not won an Oscar in these categories.

Michael B. Jordan's Best Actor win was a major highlight, celebrated by the cast of 'One Battle After Another' and audiences alike. His heartfelt speech resonated with many, underscoring his journey from a young actor to a generational star. The ceremony also saw Amy Madigan winning Best Supporting Actress for her role in 'Weapons,' marking her return to the Oscars after decades.

The introduction of the Best Casting category added a new dimension to the awards, with Cassandra Kulakundis winning for 'One Battle After Another.' This win was a surprise and prompted discussions about the significance of casting in securing a Best Picture win.

In a historic moment, Autumn Dural de Arcapa became the first woman to win Best Cinematography. Her win for 'Sinners' was met with a standing ovation, highlighting the ongoing changes in the film industry's recognition of diverse talents.

The ceremony was not without its surprises, such as a tie in the Best Live Action Short Film category. Kumail Nanjiani adeptly managed the unexpected moment, maintaining the flow of the show.

Conan O'Brien returned as the host, bringing humor and a touch of sincerity to the event. His opening montage and monologue set a lighthearted tone, while also acknowledging the tough global environment.

The Oscars also paid tribute to industry legends with heartfelt segments, including a memorable performance by Barbra Streisand. The in-memoriam section was extended to honor the numerous influential figures who passed away, reinforcing the show's theme of legacy and continuity in cinema.

Key Insights