LOS ANGELES — Hollywood’s elite gathered Sunday at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California, for the 2026 Academy Awards, celebrating achievements in film and honoring the year’s most acclaimed performances and productions.
Leading the nominations was Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, which set a record with 16 nods, followed by Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another with 13 nominations and Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein with nine.
The evening saw One Battle After Another emerge as the biggest winner, taking home six Oscars, including the coveted Best Picture award. Paul Thomas Anderson also won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for his work on the film, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s most respected directors and writers.
In the acting categories, Michael B. Jordan earned his first Oscar, winning Best Actor for his performance in Sinners. Jordan triumphed over fellow nominees Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, and other acclaimed actors, marking a milestone in his career and underscoring his prominence as one of Hollywood’s leading talents.
The Best Actress award went to Jessie Buckley for her role in Hamnet. Buckley, previously nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her work in The Lost Daughter, was recognized this year for her powerful and nuanced performance, highlighting her versatility and critical acclaim.
A notable addition to the ceremony this year was the introduction of the Academy Award for Best Casting, the first new category in 24 years. The award was presented to One Battle After Another, acknowledging the importance of casting directors in shaping the film industry and bringing compelling ensembles to the screen.
The Oscars ceremony, known for its blend of glitz, glamour, and recognition of cinematic achievement, featured appearances by a wide range of stars, directors, and producers. Attendees praised the diversity of storytelling and the industry’s ongoing efforts to spotlight unique voices and creative talent.
Throughout the night, presenters and performers highlighted both the artistry and technical achievements of the nominees, from cinematography and editing to production design and visual effects. The event also acknowledged the growing importance of representation in film, celebrating projects that explore varied cultural perspectives and social themes.
Fans and critics alike noted the dominance of One Battle After Another and the significance of Michael B. Jordan’s win, which has been widely regarded as a long-overdue recognition of his career contributions. Jessie Buckley’s performance was similarly lauded for its emotional depth and historical authenticity, particularly in portraying the complex narrative of Hamnet.
The Academy Awards continue to serve as a benchmark for cinematic excellence, reflecting both critical and popular acclaim. Industry observers pointed out that the success of films like Sinners and One Battle After Another demonstrates the Academy’s appreciation for both innovative storytelling and strong ensemble performances.
As the ceremony concluded, many attendees praised the Oscars for balancing celebration with cultural reflection, acknowledging both the entertainment value and the social impact of contemporary filmmaking. With new categories like Best Casting and recognition of rising stars, the Academy Awards aim to evolve alongside the industry while maintaining its prestige and tradition.
