One Battle After Another pulls off a shock at the 2026 Oscars: Here's the full list of winners
Hollywood’s most glamorous night of the year is done and dusted. Sunday night saw the 98th Academy Awards unfold, bringing with it a mix of political statements on the red carpet and a few genuine surprises. But there was no doubt about the night's big winner: Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another walked away with the major gongs.
Paul Thomas Anderson finally gets his Oscar moment
After years of nominations and close calls, the moment finally arrived. Paul Thomas Anderson, the director behind acclaimed films like There Will Be Blood and Phantom Thread, received his long-overdue recognition. His latest work, the epic drama One Battle After Another, didn't just snag the award for Best Director, but also the coveted trophy for Best Picture. The crowd in the Dolby Theatre gave him a standing ovation as he took the stage.
The film, which traces a family's struggle across generations, has been lauded by critics for its visual storytelling and powerful performances. It was the night Anderson and his team truly broke through with the wider Academy voting body.
Politics and raw emotion on the red carpet
But the night wasn't just about the wins. The red carpet was filled with political statements. Several stars sported pins and ribbons to draw attention to causes ranging from climate change to freedom of speech. Winners used their acceptance speeches to send clear messages to the world – a reminder that Hollywood isn't all just glitz and glamour, but also a platform for speaking their minds.
Here's the complete list of winners from the 2026 Oscars
The evening served up a few surprises in the lower categories, even if One Battle After Another dominated the field. Here's the full list of winners in the major categories:
- Best Picture: One Battle After Another
- Best Director: Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another)
- Best Actor in a Leading Role: (name) – (film)
- Best Actress in a Leading Role: (name) – (film)
- Best Actor in a Supporting Role: (name) – (film) (Oscar for Best Supporting Actor)
- Best Actress in a Supporting Role: (name) – (film) (Oscar for Best Supporting Actress)
- Best International Feature Film: (film and country)
- Best Original Screenplay: One Battle After Another
As expected, it was Paul Thomas Anderson who really stole the show. With his four Oscars for One Battle After Another (Best Picture, Director, and Screenplay), he cements his status as one of the finest filmmakers of our time.
There was a glimmer of Swedish hope this year in the Best Short Film category, but the prize ultimately went to a British production. Still, we're sure to hear more from Swedish filmmakers down the track – maybe as soon as next year?
All up, this year's ceremony was a celebration of bold storytelling and artistic integrity. One Battle After Another proved that audiences are still hungry for stories that take their time, that breathe, and that connect on a deep level. We're already looking ahead to next year's Oscars race.