Oscars 2026: horror wins, tech loses and politics loom

Warner Bros had a standout night, collecting 11 Oscars as Sinners and One Battle After Another — the season’s two biggest films — led the way. The haul capped a year of critical and commercial success for the studio, arriving as it prepares to fall under the ownership of Paramount‑Skydance and the Ellisons and faces an uncertain future.

Paramount, once a frequent best picture winner, has lately relied more on reviving old franchises. Conan O’Brien’s second time hosting felt looser and more confident, balancing political awareness with a clear love of cinema and comedy. Timothée Chalamet, long touted as overdue for a win, lost best actor to Michael B Jordan after an awards season in which his visibility may have worked against him.

Amy Madigan’s eccentric turn as Aunt Gladys captured a surprising best supporting actress victory, showing that unusual villainous performances can now carry awards seasons.

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