LOS ANGELES (AP) – The 98th Academy Awards took place on Sunday, where Paul Thomas Anderson's film “One Battle After Another” was awarded Best Picture, marking a significant moment for the filmmaker. Celebrated for its narrative on political resistance across generations, the film won a total of six Oscars, including Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay for Anderson, who had previously never won an Oscar.
While accepting the screenplay trophy, Anderson expressed remorse regarding the world he was passing on to his children, acknowledging the messy state it was in. He conveyed hope for the upcoming generation to infuse common sense and decency into society.
Michael B. Jordan won the Best Actor award, and Autumn Durald Arkapaw received the Oscar for Best Cinematography, becoming the first female director of photography to win this category. Arkapaw emphasized the importance of women in the industry during her acceptance speech, asking them to stand up to be recognized.
The night was particularly notable for Warner Bros., the studio behind both “One Battle After Another” and Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners,” which had set a record with 16 nominations. Jordan’s win as Best Actor was one of the most celebrated moments of the night, earning standing ovations from the audience at the Dolby Theatre.
Jessie Buckley was recognized as Best Actress for her role in “Hamnet,” making her the first Irish performer to achieve this distinction. Buckley dedicated her award to the chaos of a mother’s heart, poignantly referencing Mother’s Day in the U.K.
The ceremony, which was hosted for the second time by Conan O’Brien, was marked by a mix of quirky moments and political reflections. The host highlighted the significance of film as an art form amidst a chaotic world, expressing optimism and resilience as themes of the night.
In the realm of Netflix, the animated sensation “KPop Demon Hunters” won Best Animated Feature and Best Song for "Golden." Unlike traditional releases, the film became a cultural phenomenon streaming on Netflix, accumulating over 325 million views. Director Maggie Kang celebrated the victory by dedicating it to Korea and Koreans globally.
Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” received three awards for its technical achievements, including best costume design and makeup. Amy Madigan, who won Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Weapons,” expressed her excitement and gratitude for finally receiving an award after 40 years in the industry.
The awards ceremony not only celebrated cinematic achievements but also paid tribute to legendary figures in Hollywood, marking a year filled with significant losses. Barbra Streisand presented a moving tribute to Robert Redford, calling him an “intellectual cowboy,” while Billy Crystal honored Rob and Michele Reiner with heartfelt remarks.
Despite the prominence of streaming services, the night’s final award again did not go to a streaming release, underscoring a continued preference for theatrical performances. Warner Bros. dominated the evening with “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another,” both of which were shot on film and represented the personal visions of their creators.
O’Brien's comedic tone blended well with the theme of film's role in addressing contemporary issues. He jabbed at major streaming platforms and their bids for Oscars, suggesting that the Academy still favors traditional theatrical releases. The evening concluded with a reflection on the evolving landscape of the film industry, capturing the tension between streaming and cinematic experiences.
