The Dolby Theatre in Hollywood was filled with the film industry’s biggest stars this March 15, as nominees gathered for the 98th Academy Awards with hopes of taking home an Oscar. “One Battle After Another” emerged as the night’s biggest winner, taking home 6 Oscars, including best picture, supporting actor, and best director. The best director award marked Paul Thomas Anderson’s first Oscar win.
The ceremony also displayed a strong showing from Bay Area talent, continuing off the momentum sparked by Alysa Liu’s recent Olympic gold medal. Several Bay Area natives earned nominations and won major awards.
“Sinners,” a film deeply rooted with Oakland talent, was the most nominated film of all time with 16. The ceremony ended with “Sinners” taking home the second most Oscars with four. Director Ryan Coogler won Best Original Screenplay, his first time taking home hardware at the Academy Awards. “I grew up in Oakland and Richmond, California, and we can talk a lot,” said Ryan Coogler during his acceptance speech. “Memories are all we have, and I hope I’ve given you some great ones.”
Coogler’s ties to the Bay Area run deep. Generations of his family worked as longshoremen in Oakland, and both of his parents graduated from Cal State East Bay. After graduating from high school in Albany, he attended St. Mary’s College in Moraga and Sacramento State University before transferring to the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts.
“All my cast and crew, please stand up,” said Coogler. “You guys are amazing, you are all winners in my book.” Director of Photography Autumn Durald Arkapaw, who grew up in San Leandro and Oakland, became the first woman, and the first person of color, to win an Oscar for Best Cinematography.
“I really want all the women in the room to stand up,” said Arkapaw during her acceptance speech. “I wouldn’t be here without you.”
Singer and songwriter Raphael Saadiq was nominated for best original song in “Sinners”
“Oakland is where I learned everything,” said Saadiq. “Without the bay, there would be no me.”
Fellow Oakland native Delroy Lindo was nominated for his supporting role in “Sinners.” The star of the film Michael B. Jordan won best actor in a leading role. The film also took home honors for best original score. The ceremony highlighted the Bay Area’s continued rise as a hub for influential talent. With multiple winners and nominees, this year’s Oscars underscored how the Bay Area influences and shapes the film industry.
