One Battle After Another Wins Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay

Paul Thomas Anderson’s film One Battle After Another has won its first Oscar for best adapted screenplay at the 2026 Academy Awards, marking a significant achievement after 14 previous nominations. The film, which is a loose adaptation of Thomas Pynchon’s 1990 novel Vineland, features Leonardo DiCaprio as a former revolutionary living under a new identity with his teenage daughter, portrayed by Chase Infiniti.

Anderson, who has been nominated 14 times previously, including five for screenplays and three for best director, expressed his gratitude during his acceptance speech. “I’m incredibly honoured to be part of this history,” he stated, dedicating the win to his four children. He added, “I wrote this movie for my kids, to say sorry for the housekeeping mess that we left in this world we’re handing off to them.”

In addition to the screenplay award, One Battle After Another also won the inaugural casting award, with Cassandra Kulukundis receiving accolades for her work on the film. Sean Penn’s performance earned him the Oscar for best supporting actor, further highlighting the film’s critical success.

Ryan Coogler’s Sinners won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay at the same ceremony, showcasing the diverse talent present in this year’s nominations. Coogler remarked, “Memories are all we have. I hope I’ll give you some great ones,” reflecting on the power of storytelling in cinema.

The narrative of One Battle After Another follows Bob, a former revolutionary whose life takes a dark turn when an old enemy resurfaces, intertwining themes of personal struggle and familial bonds. This film marks a pivotal moment for Anderson, who has long been a prominent figure in the film industry.

As the awards season continues, observers are keen to see how One Battle After Another will perform in other categories and whether it can maintain its momentum in the competitive landscape of Hollywood. Details remain unconfirmed regarding its potential for further accolades.