Los Angeles, March 16, 2026 – The 98th Academy Awards took place last night at the Dolby Theatre, honoring the best films of 2025. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the ceremony delivered plenty of memorable moments, historic firsts, and a strong showing from several standout movies.
Paul Thomas Anderson’s epic political thriller One Battle After Another emerged as the night’s biggest winner, claiming six Oscars, including the coveted Best Picture award. The film also earned Anderson his long-awaited Best Director statuette, along with honors for Best Supporting Actor (Sean Penn), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Editing, and the newly introduced Best Casting category.
Close behind was Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, which secured four wins, highlighted by a powerful Best Actor victory for Michael B. Jordan in what many called a career-defining performance.
In the lead actress category, Jessie Buckley made history as the first Irish winner in that role, taking home the Oscar for her work in Hamnet.
Other notable highlights included strong technical wins for Frankenstein (including Production Design) and impressive showings from films like Marty Supreme and Bugonia.
Here are some of the key winners from the evening:
- Best Picture: One Battle After Another
- Best Director: Paul Thomas Anderson – One Battle After Another
- Best Actor: Michael B. Jordan – Sinners
- Best Actress: Jessie Buckley – Hamnet
- Best Supporting Actor: Sean Penn – One Battle After Another
- Best Supporting Actress: Amy Madigan – Weapons (mentioned in highlights)
The night celebrated a diverse slate of films from major studios and independents alike, with themes ranging from dystopian tension to personal drama. Many attendees and viewers praised the ceremony for its blend of humor, heartfelt speeches, and cinematic tributes.
