One Battle After Another pulls off a major shock at the 2026 Oscars – here's the full list of winners
Hollywood's most glamorous night of the year is officially in the books. The 98th Academy Awards took place on Sunday evening, bringing a mix of political statements on the red carpet and a few genuine surprises. But there was no doubt about the night's biggest winner: Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another scooped the most prestigious awards.
Paul Thomas Anderson finally gets his Oscar moment
After years of nominations and near-misses, the moment finally arrived. Paul Thomas Anderson, the director behind acclaimed films like There Will Be Blood and Phantom Thread, received his long-awaited recognition. His latest work, the epic drama One Battle After Another, didn't just take home the award for Best Director – it also bagged the coveted statue for Best Picture. The audience in the Dolby Theatre rose for a standing ovation as Anderson took the stage.
The film, which charts 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 finally broke through in a big way 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 wore pins and ribbons to highlight causes ranging from climate issues to freedom of speech. In their acceptance speeches, the winners took the opportunity to send clear signals to the wider world – a reminder that Hollywood isn't just about glitter and glamour, but also serves as a platform for opinion.
Here's the full list of winners at the 2026 Oscars
The evening threw up a few surprises in the lower categories, even if One Battle After Another was the dominant force. Here's the complete list of winners in the main 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 truly stole the show. With his four Oscars for One Battle After Another (Best Picture, Director, and Screenplay), he cements his place as one of the finest filmmakers of our time.
There was Swedish hope this year in the Best Short Film category, but unfortunately, the prize went to a British production. Still, we're sure to hear more from Swedish filmmakers in the future – maybe as early as next year?
In summary, this year's gala was a celebration of bold storytelling and artistic integrity. One Battle After Another proved that audiences still crave narratives that take their time, that breathe, and that resonate on a deep level. Here on the editorial team, we'll be keeping a close eye on developments and are already looking forward to next year's Oscars race.