Kevin Feige, Ryan Coogler, and Shawn Levy Reflect on Fandom, Test Screenings, and Boseman's Legacy at USC Celebration At a gathering honoring Kevin Feige’s contributions to USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, Marvel Studios head Feige, filmmaker Ryan Coogler, and director Shawn Levy shared insights on navigating the internet’s noise, overcoming challenges in filmmaking, and processing the loss of Chadwick Boseman. The event, hosted by USC to celebrate the Kevin Feige Division of Film & Television Production, brought together industry leaders, alumni, and students, highlighting the school’s growing influence in Hollywood. Feige, a USC graduate and major donor, emphasized the importance of balancing fan feedback with creative control. He acknowledged the overwhelming volume of online discourse, noting how theories and opinions from platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Reddit can overwhelm creators. “You can read everything on everything and get a different point of view on it. You can go crazy,” he said, adding that Marvel avoids obsessing over such noise by relying on test screenings for early audience reactions. Coogler and Levy echoed this, with Levy describing the panic that follows disappointing screenings as a shared experience among filmmakers. The conversation also touched on the challenges of maintaining creative vision amid industry pressures. Feige highlighted the value of trusting instincts over past work when hiring filmmakers, while Coogler recounted a memorable moment from his film school days. He described watching the first Iron Man screening in 2008, where he was temporarily locked out of the theater by security due to the presence of the film’s creators. Inside, he recalled the magic of the movie and the realization that he was part of something historic.#ryan_coogler #chadwick_boseman #kevin_feige #shawn_levy #usc_school_of_cinematic_arts
2026 Oscars: How 'One Battle' Beat 'Sinners,' Jordan Overcame Chalamet The 98th Oscars concluded on Sunday evening, marking the end of an awards season that many described as a series of intense competitions. Despite significant changes in the Academy’s demographics over the past decade—including a more diverse membership in terms of race, gender, nationality, and age—the traditional indicators of Oscar success remained largely accurate. While there was speculation about a late surge for Sinners, One Battle After Another ultimately secured the top prize, best picture, continuing its dominance across major award ceremonies this season, including the Gothams, Golden Globes, guilds, critics groups, and BAFTA. The only exception was the Actor Awards, where Sinners won best cast. The outcome raised questions about why Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another triumphed over Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, despite both films being Warner Bros. releases that bypassed the festival circuit and enjoyed critical and audience acclaim. Sinners even outperformed One Battle in box office revenue and Oscar nominations, securing 16 nods—two more than the previous record. However, the analysis suggested that the number of nominations alone was not decisive. In recent years, films with the most Oscar nods have not always won, as seen in cases like Emilia Pérez vs. Anora or The Power of the Dog vs. CODA. Both films received nominations for nearly every category they could have realistically hoped for, with One Battle missing out on original song, makeup/hairstyling, and visual effects, which Sinners claimed. Genre also played a role.#one_battle_after_another #sinners #oscar_awards #ryan_coogler #paul_thomas_anderson
Oscars 2026 Winners: Complete List of Honorees The 98th Academy Awards ceremony concluded with a list of winners spanning all major categories, celebrating the year’s most acclaimed films and artists. Among the standout films, "One Battle After Another" emerged as a dominant force, securing six awards including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Paul Thomas Anderson. The film’s success marked a significant milestone, as it became one of the most decorated entries in the awards’ history. Other notable winners included "Sinners," which claimed four Oscars. Ryan Coogler earned the Best Original Screenplay award, while Michael B. Jordan took home the Best Actor in a Leading Role trophy. The film’s record-breaking 16 nominations set a new benchmark for the Oscars, though it ultimately fell short of matching its own previous achievements. Jesse Buckley, Sean Penn, and Amy Madigan also received acting accolades, with Buckley winning Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in "Hamnet." Animated films were well-represented, with "KPop Demon Hunters" winning the Animated Feature Film category. The film’s hit song "Golden" also captured the Original Song award, highlighting its crossover appeal. Meanwhile, "Frankenstein" earned three Oscars, including Best Cinematography, while "The Secret Agent" triumphed in the International Feature Film category, representing Brazil. The acting categories saw a mix of established and rising stars. Timothée Chalamet, known for his role in "Marty Supreme," won Best Actor in a Leading Role, while Wagner Moura took the Supporting Actor prize for his work in "The Secret Agent.#one_battle_after_another #sinners #oscars_2026 #ryan_coogler #paul_thomas_anderson
Ryan Coogler reacts to 'Sinners' in college curriculum, honors teacher who inspired him Ryan Coogler, the director of the Oscar-nominated film Sinners, expressed his thoughts on the possibility of his work being included in college courses, while also paying tribute to the educator who shaped his early career. Fresh off his win for Best Original Screenplay at the 98th Academy Awards, Coogler shared his perspective during a press event, humorously acknowledging his own limitations in teaching. “I'll be honest with you, I'm not smart enough to teach college,” he said, adding his deep respect for professors. The filmmaker emphasized his gratitude toward the educators who influenced his path, particularly Rosemary Graham, a creative writing professor at St. Mary’s College. Coogler recalled how Graham, who read his first writing assignment at age 17, encouraged him to pursue screenwriting. “She literally said that to me,” he said, highlighting how her words stayed with him. He praised teachers who dedicate their lives to nurturing future storytellers, calling their work “the utmost respect” for shaping young minds. Coogler also mentioned that if Sinners is ever used in a classroom, he would leave the lesson plan entirely to the professors. “I'll leave it in their hands if they ever want to take my film and teach a class on it, man. God bless them, and I think they'll know how to do it best,” he said. Beyond the academic angle, Coogler reflected on the personal roots of Sinners, which he dedicated to his late uncle James. The film, inspired by stories about Mississippi and blues music shared by his uncle, holds significant emotional weight for him. “To be honest, I'm incredibly grateful that people engaged with it at the theater,” he said.#sinners #michael_b_jordan #ryan_coogler #rosemary_graham #st_mary_s_college
Ryan Coogler reacts to 'Sinners' in college curriculum, honors teacher who inspired him Fresh off winning Best Original Screenplay at the 98th Academy Awards, filmmaker Ryan Coogler reflected on the possibility of his film being taught in universities. While open to the idea, he humorously dismissed the notion of teaching himself, joking, “I’m not smart enough to teach college.” Coogler expressed deep respect for educators, crediting his own path to a college professor who encouraged his early writing ambitions. The Oakland native recalled how Rosemary Graham, an English and creative writing professor at St. Mary’s College, recognized his potential after reading his first assignment at age 17. “She told me, ‘Hey, you should go to Hollywood and write screenplays,’” he said, emphasizing how her words shaped his career. Coogler reiterated his admiration for teachers who guide future storytellers, stating, “I have the utmost respect for anyone dedicating their life to nurturing the next generation.” He also highlighted the importance of educators in shaping creative minds, adding that if “Sinners” ever became part of a college syllabus, he would trust professors to handle the lesson plan. “I’ll leave it in their hands,” he said, “because they’ll know how to do it best.” Beyond the academic angle, Coogler shared personal connections to the film, dedicating it to his late Uncle James, who introduced him to blues music and stories about Mississippi. These influences formed the emotional core of the project. He described the Oscar win as a significant honor but stressed that the film’s impact on audiences mattered more. “I’m incredibly grateful people engaged with it at the theater,” he said, noting how writing about personal truths often resonates with others. His colleague Michael B.#michael_b_jordan #ryan_coogler #rosemary_graham #st_mary_s_college #uncle_james
Is Sinners a Musical? Yes, And The debate over whether Ryan Coogler’s Sinners qualifies as a musical has sparked widespread discussion this Oscar season. The film, which blends elements of horror, gangster drama, period piece, and coming-of-age storytelling, challenges traditional definitions of the genre. At its core, Sinners is a diegetic musical—a narrative where characters are fully aware they are performing, with music and song integral to the plot. This approach has reignited conversations about the evolving role of musicals in cinema, particularly in the wake of historical shifts that marginalized the genre. The film’s narrative unfolds in the Depression-era Mississippi Delta, centering on Sammy, the son of a preacher who rejects the spiritual power of music in favor of Christianity. His journey begins with a choral rendition of “This Little Light of Mine,” a moment that contrasts sharply with the theatrical songs to follow. This opening establishes the film’s thematic focus: the transformative power of music. Sammy’s desire to become a musician, despite his father’s disapproval, becomes the inciting incident. His development of a song, “I Lied To You,” serves as both a personal and narrative catalyst, allowing him to express emotions he cannot articulate through speech. The film’s genre-blending nature is further explored through its characters and settings. Sammy is introduced to the world of music by his twin cousins, Smoke and Stack, two retired gangsters returning home to establish a juke joint. This space becomes a hub for community and cultural expression, where music, dancing, and storytelling intertwine. Through interactions with Delta Slim, an elder musician, Sammy learns the painful origins of the blues, as Slim improvises melodies to process trauma.#sinners #ryan_coogler #sammy #delta_slim #mississippi_delta
Oscars 2026: Ryan Coogler's Sinners Wins First Oscar, Best Live Action Short Film Tie Ryan Coogler's Sinners claimed its first Oscar of the night, marking a significant milestone for the vampire-themed film. The award for best live action short film was shared between Sinners and Two People Exchanging Saliva, a historic tie in the ceremony's nearly century-long history. The decision sparked immediate reactions, with fans and critics noting the rarity of such a split. The evening’s winners included Amy Madigan, who took home the best supporting actress award for her role in Weapons, and Sean Penn, who won best supporting actor for his performance in One Battle After Another. Cassandra Kulukundis made history by winning the first-ever Oscar for best casting, recognizing her work on One Battle After Another. On the red carpet, best actress nominee Rose Byrne made a striking entrance in a custom Chanel outfit, while the KPop group Demon Hunters brought a bold fashion statement to the event. The film Sinners, which broke the record for the most Oscar nominations in a single year with 16, had already won the best original screenplay award. However, it faces stiff competition from Leonardo DiCaprio’s One Battle After Another, which earned 13 nominations. The ceremony also celebrated technical achievements, with Avatar: Fire and Ash securing the best visual effects award. Directed by James Cameron, the film mirrored its success during awards season, including a Bafta win. The team honored the 2,000+ individuals involved in the project, though the tribute was cut short due to time constraints. Notable moments included Pedro Pascal’s surprise appearance with a clean-shaven look, marking a departure from his signature mustache.#amy_madigan #sinners #oscars_2026 #ryan_coogler #two_people_exchanging_saliva
How It Hits: Are horror musicals the future? Ryan Coogler’s Sinners has emerged as a groundbreaking film that merges horror and musical storytelling, potentially signaling a significant shift in genre filmmaking. The movie, which combines vampire horror with powerful musical elements, achieved massive box office success and earned an unprecedented 16 Oscar nominations. This achievement has sparked discussions in Hollywood about whether horror musicals could become a viable and popular genre in the future. The film’s unique blend of genres has captivated audiences, demonstrating that the combination of horror and musical elements can be both compelling and commercially successful. Sinners not only entertains but also challenges traditional boundaries in cinema, offering a fresh approach to storytelling that resonates with viewers. Its success has raised questions about the potential for similar projects to gain traction in the industry. Kristy Puchko, the Entertainment Editor at Mashable, highlights the significance of Sinners in the context of genre filmmaking. Based in New York City, Puchko is a seasoned film critic and entertainment reporter with a global perspective, having covered numerous film festivals and interviewed a wide range of filmmakers and performers. Her insights underscore the cultural and artistic impact of Sinners, positioning it as a pivotal moment in the evolution of horror and musical genres. The film’s box office performance and critical acclaim have positioned it as a landmark release, suggesting that audiences are increasingly open to unconventional genre combinations.#new_york_city #sinners #ryan_coogler #kristy_puchko #mashable
The tightest race in years: Predictions for the 98th Academy Awards The 98th Academy Awards, set for Sunday, are shaping up as one of the most fiercely contested events in recent memory. With multiple films vying for top honors and actors competing for major categories, the night promises to deliver surprises and standout performances. As the film industry continues to thrive in theaters, the awards ceremony will highlight the year’s most impactful storytelling. Among the most anticipated races is the Best Picture category, where "One Battle After Another" faces stiff competition from "Sinners." Paul Thomas Anderson’s long-awaited film, which explores complex themes of family and societal conflict, is expected to dominate the night. Its ensemble cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio del Toro, and Sean Penn, is seen as a key factor in its favor. Meanwhile, "Sinners," directed by Ryan Coogler, is tipped to win Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan, who delivers a dual performance as twins with distinct emotional arcs. In the Best Actress race, Jessie Buckley’s role in "Hamnet" is considered a near-lock after sweeping precursor awards. Her portrayal of a grieving mother is described as emotionally resonant and pivotal to the film’s success. For Best Actor, Michael B. Jordan’s performance in "Sinners" is highlighted as a breakthrough, with critics praising his ability to balance two contrasting characters. Paul Thomas Anderson is also predicted to win Best Director for "One Battle After Another," with analysts noting his meticulous craftsmanship and the film’s relevance to contemporary issues. The film’s blend of drama and humor, along with its stellar cast, is seen as a strong contender for the top honor. Supporting roles are equally competitive.#academy_awards #one_battle_after_another #sinners #ryan_coogler #paul_thomas_anderson
Oscars 2026 predictions: The case for a 'Sinners' best picture The 2026 Academy Awards, set to air on Sunday, are shaping up as a highly anticipated event with a diverse slate of films. Among the most discussed contenders are Sinners and One Battle After Another, both of which are expected to dominate the best picture category. Critics and analysts have weighed in on which film is more likely to win, while also debating which one should. Sinners, starring Michael B. Jordan as twin brothers Smoke and Stack, has been praised for its bold storytelling and artistic ambition. Director Ryan Coogler, known for his consistent work in both mainstream and indie cinema, has once again pushed creative boundaries with this film. The movie’s exploration of themes like systemic racism and violence has sparked significant discussion, particularly in its depiction of a Black character confronting the KKK. However, some critics argue that this ending may be too provocative for certain Academy voters, who may prefer more traditional narratives. One Battle After Another, on the other hand, is seen as a safer bet for the Oscar win. The film, starring Leonardo DiCaprio as Bob Ferguson, is a satirical take on right-wing extremism and political polarization. Its nuanced approach to both left and right wing ideologies has resonated with a segment of Academy voters who value political commentary in cinema. Glen Weldon, a critic for NPR, suggests that One Battle is likely to win due to its broad appeal and the support of established actors, which aligns with the ranked-choice voting system used by the Academy. Aisha Harris highlights the role of Paul Thomas Anderson in the debate, noting that his film Sinners has generated significant buzz despite his lack of previous Oscar wins.#one_battle_after_another #sinners #oscars_2026 #ryan_coogler #leonardo_dicaprio
Kirsten Dunst's Khaite Heels Make a Statement at SAG Actor Awards Kirsten Dunst made a fashion-forward entrance at the 32nd annual Actor Awards on Sunday, opting for a whimsical yet sophisticated look. The actress, who attended the ceremony hosted by SAG-AFTRA at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles, wore a standout pair of Khaite heels from the brand’s fall 2026 collection. Paired with a dress from the same line, her outfit drew attention for its blend of minimalist design and bold detailing. The Khaite heels featured a unique sculptural block heel that tapers and flares at the base, offering a striking contrast to the sky-high footwear chosen by many other attendees. Dunst’s choice of a 75mm heel—just under three inches—stood out as a more conservative yet distinctive option. The shoes’ architectural silhouette, combined with their high-cut design, complemented her ensemble, which included a backless dress with a drop waist, an A-line midi skirt, and a large front bow. The dress also showcased a lace pattern along the back, adding texture to her look. Dunst’s selection of Khaite aligns with her reputation for favoring standout footwear. The actress, who attended the event to support her husband’s Best Actor nomination for Bugonia, has previously been spotted in designs from brands like Loewe, Gianvito Rossi, Andrea Wazen, Jennifer Chamandi, and Valentino. Her fashion choices often reflect a balance between elegance and individuality, making her a frequent presence in high-profile red carpet moments. The 32nd annual Actor Awards, formerly known as the Screen Actors Guild Awards, celebrated the best performances in film and television from 2025.#ryan_coogler #shrine_auditorium #kirsten_dunst #khaite #sag_aftra
