One Battle After Another defeats Hamnet and Sinners at Baftas, as I Swear’s Robert Aramayo takes best actor

The Guardian World

by Nadia Khomami Arts and culture correspondent

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Paul Thomas Anderson’s *One Battle After Another* swept the Baftas with six awards, solidifying its status as a major player in this year’s film awards season. The counterculture comedy, inspired by Thomas Pynchon’s *Vineland*, took home Best Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay honors. This victory further cements Anderson’s reputation as a filmmaking maestro, while also propelling Jessie Buckley to history as the first Irish woman to win the Leading Actress prize for her role in *I Swear*. The film’s dominance at the ceremony, which saw it receive an impressive 14 nominations—more than any other contender—highlighted its critical acclaim and widespread recognition. The story follows a washed-up revolutionary, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio, who attempts to protect his daughter from a ruthless military officer. Starring alongside him are Sean Penn, Benicio del Toro, Chase Infiniti, and Teyana Taylor, all of whom garnered significant attention for their performances. The film’s success at the Baftas underscores its ability to blend sharp wit with thought-provoking storytelling, resonating with both critics and audiences. Paul Thomas Anderson’s innovative approach to blending comedy with a counterculture narrative has once again proven his mastery in the industry. The ceremony also saw Robert Aramayo take home the Best Actor prize for his role in *I Swear*, marking another milestone for the film. Jessie Buckley’s win for Leading Actress further highlighted the talent and impact of Irish women in Hollywood, breaking a longstanding barrier. The Baftas’ recognition of these performances not only celebrates individual achievements but also sheds light on the growing diversity and inclusivity within the film industry. As the world continues to demand more stories that challenge norms and push boundaries, *One Battle After Another* serves as a testament to the power of bold, original storytelling. The significance of this win extends beyond accolades; it positions *One Battle After Another* as a contender for other major awards circuits, including the Oscars. Anderson’s film has demonstrated that blending humor with social commentary can yield

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/22/2026