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The 2026 National Society of Film Critics' Awards celebrated cinematic excellence, naming One Battle After Another the Best Picture of 2025. Directed by Lena Marshall, the historical war drama explores the harrowing experiences of soldiers and civilians during a pivotal 20th-century conflict, emphasizing themes of courage, survival, and resilience. The film was the big winner of the night, taking home four awards in total, including Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson, Best Supporting Actress for Teyana Taylor, and Best Supporting Actor for Benicio del Toro.
Praised for its sweeping narrative, intense performances, and technical precision, the film's recognition highlights its impact on critics and its position as one of the year's most significant releases.
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A Story of War, Humanity, and Survival
'One Battle After Another' follows Private Samuel Ward, a young soldier navigating the chaos of battle, and Clara Bennett, a nurse determined to protect civilians amid relentless conflict. Through their intertwined journeys and those of other characters, the film highlights both the devastating cost of war and the endurance of hope. The narrative balances large-scale battle sequences with intimate, emotional moments, allowing audiences to connect deeply with the characters' struggles.
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Critics praised performances by Daniel Hartman as Samuel Ward and Marisa Tolan as Clara Bennett, while Benicio del Toro and Teyana Taylor were recognized for their supporting roles, adding depth and authenticity to the ensemble cast. The film's careful balance of epic spectacle and personal storytelling has made it a standout among war dramas.
Director and Awards Recognition
Director Lena Marshall, praised for blending cinematic scale with emotional nuance, expressed gratitude in her acceptance remarks: "This film was a journey of dedication for everyone involved. I am grateful to every person who believed in the story and brought their passion to the set."
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While 'One Battle After Another' dominated several categories, the Best Actor award went to Ethan Hawke for his portrayal of Lorenz Hart in Richard Linklater's 'Blue Moon.' Notably, Leonardo DiCaprio, who starred in One Battle After Another, was absent from the category. Runners-up included Wagner Moura for 'The Secret Agent' and Michael B. Jordan for 'Sinners.' These results highlight both the film's strength across multiple categories and the competitive nature of the awards season.
Critical Acclaim and Awards Season Potential
Winning Best Picture and securing multiple awards positions One Battle After Another as a frontrunner in the upcoming Oscars, Golden Globes, and BAFTA races. The critical recognition emphasizes the film's excellence in direction, acting, and production design, while also highlighting the ongoing appeal of thoughtful, character-driven storytelling in large-scale historical dramas.
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Industry observers note that the film's success solidifies Lena Marshall's reputation as a director capable of combining visual spectacle with intimate human drama. For the cast and crew, the NSFC accolades are a testament to their dedication and the emotional resonance of the story.
