The film “One Battle After Another” emerged as the standout victor at this year’s Academy Awards, securing the prestigious title of best picture along with five additional accolades. Initially, Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners” had taken the lead with a groundbreaking 16 nominations, ultimately clinching victories in four categories.
Michael B. Jordan, the lead in “Sinners,” triumphed as best actor, earning his first-ever win on his inaugural nomination and receiving a rousing standing ovation from the audience. Another notable win was for Jessie Buckley for her portrayal as William Shakespeare’s wife in “Hamnet,” after a dominant performance in the 2026 awards season, including wins at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards, Actor Awards, and BAFTA Film Awards.
The supporting actor Oscar was claimed by Sean Penn for his role in “One Battle After Another,” marking his third Academy Award, while Amy Madigan secured the best actress in a supporting role for her performance in the movie “Weapons.”
Canadian talent shone brightly at the ceremony as well. Director Maggie Kang from Toronto accepted the Oscar for best animated feature for “KPop Demon Hunters.” Additionally, Canadian production designers Tamara Deverell and Shane Vieau, along with makeup and hairstyling artists Jordan Samuel and Cliona Furey, all celebrated wins for their contributions to “Frankenstein.”
“Notable wins for ‘One Battle After Another’ included Paul Thomas Anderson’s first-ever victories for best adapted screenplay and directing, in addition to awards for editing and casting — a newly introduced Academy Award category after 24 years.
“Sinners” also garnered success with four awards, including Ryan Coogler’s win for best original screenplay and Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s historic win for best cinematography as the first racialized woman recipient.
The film “Frankenstein,” filmed in Toronto, secured three awards. The winners of the 98th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, are as follows:
– Picture: “One Battle After Another”
– Directing: Paul Thomas Anderson, “One Battle After Another”
– Actress in a leading role: Jessie Buckley, “Hamnet”
– Actor in a leading role: Michael B. Jordan, “Sinners”
– Actress in a supporting role: Amy Madigan, “Weapons”
– Actor in a supporting role: Sean Penn, “One Battle After Another”
– Casting: Cassandra Kulukundis, “One Battle After Another”
– Writing (original screenplay): Ryan Coogler, “Sinners”
– Writing (adapted screenplay): Paul Thomas Anderson, “One Battle After Another”
– International feature film: “Sentimental Value” (Norway)
– Animated feature film: “KPop Demon Hunters”
– Animated short film: “The Girl Who Cried Pearls”
The event also celebrated wins across various categories, ranging from music and production design to visual effects and sound. The Canadian presence was particularly prominent, highlighting the country’s diverse and remarkable contributions to the world of cinema.
