Oscar Hopefuls Return: One Battle After Another and Sinners Hit Cinemas Again
Warner Bros. is bringing One Battle After Another and Sinners back to the big screen, signalling strong Oscar ambitions as both films are tipped for major nominations.
Warner Bros. is doubling down on its awards season favourites, sending both One Battle After Another and Sinners back into cinemas this weekend. The move suggests the studio is feeling rather bullish about the films’ chances when the Oscar nominations are revealed later today, with both titles widely tipped to land in the Best Picture race. Directors Paul Thomas Anderson and Ryan Coogler are also expected to be in the running for Best Director, adding to the buzz swirling around these much-talked-about releases.
One Battle After Another has already made a splash this awards season, leading the pack at the Golden Globes with nine nods and walking away with four trophies. Among its wins were Best Motion Picture (Musical or Comedy), Best Director, Best Screenplay, and a standout acting award for Teyana Taylor. Sinners wasn’t far behind, picking up six nominations and scoring two wins, including Best Original Score and the Cinematic and Box Office Achievement award. While the Oscars are known for the odd curveball, these results give a fair indication of how things might shake out for the Academy Awards.
Plot Twists and Star Power
One Battle After Another centres on Bob, a former revolutionary played by Leonardo DiCaprio, who finds himself dragged back into old conflicts when his past resurfaces. The drama intensifies as an old adversary comes after his teenage daughter Willa, portrayed by Chase Infiniti. The film weaves together themes of redemption, family, and the inescapable pull of history, all set against a backdrop of simmering tension.
Sinners, on the other hand, takes a different tack. Set in the 1930s, it follows twin brothers—both played by Michael B. Jordan—who return to their Mississippi hometown after years spent in Chicago’s criminal underworld. Their homecoming is anything but peaceful, as they’re forced to confront a supernatural evil that threatens the community. The film blends elements of horror and crime, with a period setting that adds to its moody atmosphere.
Back in Cinemas and Eyeing the Prize
Both films are set to return to the big screen on January 23, giving punters another chance to catch them before the Oscar buzz reaches fever pitch. The re-release is a clear sign that Warner Bros. is keen to keep the momentum going, hoping to capitalise on the awards chatter and draw in fresh audiences. With the nominations just hours away, anticipation is running high among film fans and industry insiders alike.
For those looking to plan their next trip to the cinema, these two titles are shaping up as must-sees. And with the 2026 awards season in full swing, there’s no shortage of speculation about which films will come out on top. If you’re after more recommendations, there’s a handy guide to the best upcoming films set to hit screens this year.