AceShowbiz - One Battle After Another director Paul Thomas Anderson earned his first-ever Oscar for Best Director at this year’s Academy Awards. His win marks a significant milestone in a career filled with multiple nominations but no prior victories in this category.

In his acceptance speech, Paul Thomas Anderson expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, "You make a guy work hard for one of these. I really appreciate it." He dedicated the award to a close friend and longtime collaborator, Adam Somner, who was battling illness during the film’s production.

“I share this with a friend of mine on the other side of the shadows. His name is Adam and he is having a gin and tonic and is so happy for me and our crew,” Anderson said. He also thanked the Academy for recognizing his work and praised his fellow nominees, whom he called “my classmates”: Chloé Zhao (“Hamnet”), Ryan Coogler (“Sinners”), Joachim Trier (“Sentimental Value”), and Josh Safdie (“Marty Supreme”).

Anderson acknowledged the uncertainty that often accompanies such honors but expressed pure joy in receiving it. "There will always be some doubt in your heart that you deserve it, but there is no question at the pleasure having it for myself." He emphasized the importance of collaboration in filmmaking, noting the faith and time given by his crew as the best part of making movies. Anderson called the Oscar a “wonderful gift” and said he was “so happy to call the movies home.”

One Battle After Another led the nominations with 13 nods, including Best Picture, Best Actor for Leonardo DiCaprio, and Best Supporting Actor nods for both Benicio del Toro and Sean Penn. It was also recognized for Best Supporting Actress with Teyana Taylor and Best Adapted Screenplay, which Anderson wrote.

Besides winning Best Director, Anderson also took home Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay and as a producer for Best Picture. Prior to this ceremony, he had received 11 Oscar nominations for films like “Boogie Nights,” “There Will Be Blood,” and “Phantom Thread” but had not won.

Earlier in the awards season, Paul Thomas Anderson secured the BAFTA Film Award for Best Director. He dedicated that honor to Adam Somner, his producer and assistant director, who had worked with him for nearly 20 years. Anderson shared that Somner had been diagnosed with illness a few weeks into filming but persevered through production.

“If you’ve ever gone to work before with someone who’s very ill, there’s something miraculous that makes you pay attention and reminds you the privilege of the work that we do,” Anderson reflected. “So thank you for sending him to me.”

This recognition caps a remarkable year for Anderson and One Battle After Another, highlighting the film’s critical acclaim and the deep bonds formed during its creation.