Paul Thomas Anderson Wins US Directing Award - Paul Thomas Anderson Wins DGA Award for One Battle After Another Before Oscars Showdown
Paul Thomas Anderson has won the Directors Guild of America (DGA) Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Theatrical Feature Film. His latest movie, One Battle After Another, earned him the honour at this year's ceremony. The film, released last September, has already received widespread acclaim and multiple accolades.
The DGA Award is often seen as a key predictor for success at the Oscars. Anderson's victory marks his second win in this category, following his 2008 triumph for There Will Be Blood.
One Battle After Another follows militant left-wing activists, led by strong Black women, as they navigate political struggles and personal conflicts. The story draws inspiration from 1960s revolutionary groups like the Weather Underground, blending themes of family loyalty, past regrets, and relentless pursuit by corrupt forces. Critics praised its sharp dialogue, emotional depth, and layered storytelling—particularly the father-daughter dynamic and performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Teyana Taylor, and Sean Penn, who plays a ruthless officer.
Despite a modest opening weekend of $22 million, the film quickly gained momentum. Reviewers highlighted its intricate plotting, influenced by Thomas Pynchon's Vineland, and its exploration of love, betrayal, and the weight of history. By early 2026, it had secured 389 nominations and 187 wins, including a Golden Globe for Best Musical or Comedy.
Anderson faced strong competition at the DGA Awards. Nominees included Chloé Zhao for Hamnet, Ryan Coogler for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Guillermo del Toro for Pinocchio, and Josh Safdie for Uncut Gems.
One Battle After Another now heads into the Academy Awards with 13 nominations. Anderson's DGA win strengthens its position as a frontrunner in the Best Picture and Best Director races. The film's blend of political drama, family tension, and standout performances has cemented its place as one of the year's most celebrated works.
