Oscars 2026: Will One Battle After Another Receive a Best Picture Nomination?

One Battle After Another is one of the most-anticipated films of the year, thanks to its acclaimed director, A-list cast, and original plot.

The film, inspired by the 1990 novel Vineland, features lead performances from an array of Academy Award winners, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Benicio del Toro.

Also, it was written and directed by award-winning director Paul Thomas Anderson, who has received Oscar nominations for various critically acclaimed films, such as Magnolia (1999), There Will Be Blood (2007), and Phantom Thread (2017).

As a result, Oscar buzz is building for the upcoming flick, which is scheduled for release this September. The question is: will One Battle After Another receive a Best Picture nomination? Keep reading to find out.

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Paul Thomas Anderson Has a Strong Oscar Track Record

Paul Thomas Anderson is well-regarded by the Academy, as the talented filmmaker has earned 11 Oscar nominations for directing, writing, and producing throughout his career.

While he currently doesn’t have an Oscar statuette sitting in his trophy cabinet, the multiple nominations prove he is widely respected.

As a result, One Battle After Another is likely to be considered for a Best Picture nomination if it is a critical and commercial success.

What’s more, the Academy might believe Paul Thomas Anderson’s exceptional body of work is long overdue for an Academy Award, increasing his likelihood of a Best Picture nomination and win.

Also, his collaboration with Oscar winner Leonardo DiCaprio might be viewed as a dream team, boosting the film’s credibility in the category.

A Competitive Category

Leonardo DiCaprio’s casting in One Battle After Another will automatically draw huge attention to the film.

As the actor’s various portrayals have received widespread acclaim, the movie will likely be a major contender for many accolades, including Best Picture.

The film’s compelling, timely plot and superb direction will likely add weight to the flick, increasing its chances of success in the category. For this reason, Oscar buzz is building for the movie ahead of its domestic release on September 26, 2025.

However, One Battle After Another faces stiff competition from other major releases this year, as many film franchises have a strong track record in the Best Picture category.

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For instance, as Avatar (2009) and Avatar: The Way of the Water (2022) each received a Best Picture nomination, Avatar: Fire and Ash is expected to earn a place in the category.

BEO betting odds indicate it is the film most likely to receive a nomination at the Oscars 2026.

Also, Wicked: For Good is likely to follow in Wicked’s footsteps and earn a nod. Various other films are generating Oscar hype, too, such as After the Hunt, Sinners, Marty Supreme, and Frankenstein, to name a few.

As only ten films will receive a Best Picture nomination, One Battle After Another must stand out from the crowd and secure the Academy’s consensus as one of the best films of the year.

Critics Will Shape Its Success

One Battle After Another must earn positive reviews from top critics to be considered for Best Picture.

However, test screenings have reportedly gone well, with audiences often laughing aloud at various funny moments in the film.

Also, those treated to the early showing praised Sean Penn’s villainous character and stated the film is fun and original.

Of course, the movie will need the majority of reviews to praise its writing, directing, performances, and technical excellence to stand a chance at earning a Best Picture nod.

If it receives many negative or mixed reviews, it might not be seriously considered by the Academy for the accolade.

If you believe One Battle After Another will receive a Best Picture nomination at the Oscars 2026, you could win $309.10 by betting $100 if it happens.