Una Batalla Tras Otra Dominates Predictable 98th Academy Awards

The 98th Academy Awards ceremony concluded the awards season with one of the most predictable outcomes in recent years, as *Una batalla tras otra* dominated the night.

The film's 13 nominations initially flew under the radar amid the buzz around *Los pecadores*, which secured 16 nods and went on to win four major categories: original score, cinematography, original screenplay, and best actor for Michael B. Jordan. However, *Una batalla tras otra*, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, claimed the top prize for best picture along with five others: adapted screenplay, editing, supporting actor for Sean Penn (who was absent), casting direction, and direction.

Directed by the 55-year-old American filmmaker, the movie runs over two hours and 40 minutes but maintains a fast-paced intensity packed with action. Its star-studded cast includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio del Toro, and Sean Penn, a lineup credited with earning the casting award—seen by some as a nod to established talent rather than innovative selection. Critics had anticipated the sweep as early as September 2025.

Anderson, pursuing his first Oscar after 28 years since his original screenplay nod for *Boogie Nights*, has accumulated multiple nominations across categories: three each for adapted and original screenplays, four for direction, and four as producer. His notable works include *El hilo invisible*, *Pozos de ambición*, and the three-hour epic *Magnolia*.

Host Connor O’Brien delivered a smooth presentation for the second year running, leaning into humor that played off the audience and touched lightly on current events, avoiding overly crude remarks. Spanish actor Javier Bardem drew mixed reactions with a solo anti-war statement advocating for a free Palestine, made before an audience largely comprising Jewish industry figures.

The ceremony marked the end of a lackluster awards cycle. Disney will hand broadcast rights to YouTube in 2029, though traditional TV outlets are expected to step in for future broadcasts.