Leonardo DiCaprio and Paul Thomas Anderson are officially the heavy hitters of the 98th Academy Awards. Their acclaimed film, The Battle of Baktan Cross, secured a staggering 11 nominations when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released the full list on January 22, 2026. The film is now the clear frontrunner heading into the ceremony next month.

The nominations cover nearly every major category. Paul Thomas Anderson is in the running for Best Director, while Leonardo DiCaprio earned a highly anticipated Best Actor nod for his leading role. The project is also a favorite to take home the Best Picture trophy. This massive haul solidifies the duo's status as the industry's most formidable pair this year.

Success is already a habit for this production. Before the Oscar nods were even announced, the film picked up major wins at the Golden Globes and the Critics' Choice Award. After losing the Producers Guild Awards and the BAFTAs to The Last Days, The Battle of Baktan Cross heads toward the March 15, 2026, ceremony with massive momentum.