The film “One Battle After Another” emerged victorious at this year’s Academy Awards, securing the coveted best picture Oscar as well as five additional awards. Meanwhile, “Sinners,” directed by Ryan Coogler, initially led the nominations with a groundbreaking 16 nods but clinched victories in four categories.
Michael B. Jordan, the star of “Sinners,” triumphed as best actor, earning his first win on his debut nomination and receiving a standing ovation from the audience. Additionally, Jessie Buckley secured the award for her portrayal of William Shakespeare’s wife in “Hamnet,” following a successful award season with wins at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice, Actor, and BAFTA Film ceremonies.
Amy Madigan was honored as best supporting actress for her role in “Weapons,” while Sean Penn clinched the supporting actor Oscar for his performance in “One Battle After Another,” marking his third Academy Award win.
Several Canadians also shone brightly at the event. Toronto director Maggie Kang accepted the Oscar for best animated feature for “KPop Demon Hunters,” competing alongside fellow Canadian Domee Shi, the co-director of the film “Elio.” Moreover, Canadian production designers Tamara Deverell and Shane Vieau of Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” claimed their own Oscar statuettes, alongside Canadians Jordan Samuel and Cliona Furey, who shared the makeup and hairstyling win for the same film.
Furthermore, Montreal filmmakers Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski were recognized with the award for best animated short film for “The Girl Who Cried Pearls.” “One Battle After Another” not only secured wins for best picture and best supporting actor but also earned Paul Thomas Anderson his first-ever wins for best adapted screenplay and directing. The film also triumphed in the editing and casting categories, the latter being a new Academy Award category introduced after 24 years.
“Sinners” scooped up four awards, including Ryan Coogler’s win for best original screenplay and Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s victory for best cinematography, making her the first racialized woman to claim the award. “Frankenstein,” filmed in Toronto, also received three awards.
The winners from the 98th Academy Awards ceremony, hosted by Conan O’Brien, included “One Battle After Another” for Best Picture, Paul Thomas Anderson for Directing, Jessie Buckley for Actress in a Leading Role, Michael B. Jordan for Actor in a Leading Role, Amy Madigan for Actress in a Supporting Role, and Sean Penn for Actor in a Supporting Role, among others.