Oscar Nominees Unite at Annual Luncheon
This year’s nominees for the 98th Academy Awards came together on Tuesday for the traditional Oscars luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. This event provides a rare break during the intense awards season, transforming competitors into colleagues and rivals into friendly chatters. It’s essentially the last genuinely “happy” day of the season, as everyone present is recognized as a winner simply for being there.
A Controlled and Intimate Gathering
The luncheon took place in the Wilshire Ballroom, featuring a strictly managed setup. Nominees arrived without their publicists unless they were included as guests. Seating was arranged randomly, resulting in a space devoid of entourages and strategizing — just artists and collaborators mingling. For many, this moment marks the realization of their Oscar nomination.
Welcoming Remarks and Celebrations
Lynette Howell Taylor, the newly elected president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, who took office in July 2025, offered the welcoming remarks. Her speech highlighted the importance of the occasion and the sense of community at the event. She notably acknowledged casting directors among the honorees this year, which elicited a strong response from the audience.
Record-Setting Nominations
Warner Bros. dominated the nominations, primarily due to the acclaimed works of Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” and Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners.” Coogler’s vampire epic garnered a staggering 16 nominations, while Anderson’s action drama followed closely with 13. Both films are nominated for best picture alongside nominees like “Bugonia” and “Frankenstein.”
Crowd Reactions and Applause
While it’s subjective to gauge audience reactions, it was clear who received the most enthusiastic applause. When Ryan Coogler’s name was announced for best picture, directing, and original screenplay, the cheers were notably louder than others. His wife, Zinzi Coogler, was among the most animated supporters in the crowd. Benicio Del Toro also received significant applause for his role in “One Battle After Another.”
Notable Absences
Some nominees were unable to attend the luncheon. Ludwig Göransson, a frontrunner for original score for “Sinners,” was in London working on Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of “The Odyssey.” Similarly, Renate Reinsve, nominated for best actress for “Sentimental Value,” was occupied filming a new project. Sean Penn also missed the gathering, which was expected given his previous sentiments about his Oscar experience.
Heartwarming Moments and Reunions
Past nominees like Kate Hudson, returning after 25 years since her first nomination, and Jessie Buckley, celebrating her first best actress nomination, shared tender moments with peers. The event was filled with warm interactions, from Josh Safdie, nominated across four categories, to heartfelt embraces among nominees and past winners. Overall, it served as a reminder that even amidst the celebration, the next season of filmmaking is already on the horizon.
