Key Highlights
- “Sinners” broke the record for most Oscar nominations with 16.
- Ryan Coogler, an Oakland native and Sacramento State alumnus, wrote and directed “Sinners.”
- “One Battle After Another,” directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, received 13 Oscar nominations.
- Both films highlight unique stories and were heavily represented at the 2026 Oscars despite different shooting locations.
Record-Breaking “Sinners” Dominates with 16 Nominations
The 98th Academy Awards nominations are a testament to the enduring impact of Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners.” The vampire film, which delves into cultural appreciation and love for blues music, broke the record for most Oscar nominations with an impressive 16. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given that Coogler, who hails from Oakland but attended Sacramento State before pursuing his career in filmmaking, has already made a name for himself on the global stage.
Coogler’s Roots and Success
Ryan Coogler, a graduate of Sacramento State in 2007, has managed to bring a blend of personal and professional success. His time as a football player at Sac State provided him with both discipline and perspective that he later applied to his filmmaking career. His journey from playing on the field to directing one of the most critically acclaimed films in history is a story worth celebrating for Sacramento’s academic institutions.
Coogler’s connection to Sacramento is not just a matter of personal ties; it’s also about fostering local talent and supporting creative communities that can produce world-class works. His success serves as an inspiration for current and future students at Sacramento State, highlighting the value of a diverse education and the importance of nurturing artistic ambitions.
“One Battle After Another” Sparks Excitement in Sacramento
While “Sinners” was not shot in Sacramento, Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another,” a nearly three-hour thriller, received 13 nominations at this year’s Oscars. The film’s production spanned multiple locations across California, including Sacramento, Stockton, Tracy, Eureka, Borrego Springs, Walter’s Camp, Lompoc, and San Diego. This wide-reaching production underscored the potential of Sacramento as a filming hub.
The movie features iconic Sacramento landmarks such as the SacRT light rail, Tower Bridge, and several downtown government buildings.
These locations not only enhance the film’s narrative but also elevate Sacramento’s profile in the entertainment industry. The success of “One Battle After Another” has paved the way for more films to consider Sacramento as a viable filming location, potentially boosting local economic growth and cultural recognition.
Symbolic Victory for Sacramento
The nominations for both “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another” symbolize something larger than just individual accolades. They represent the city’s growing influence in the film industry and its ability to support filmmakers who can create groundbreaking works. The debate between which movie is better, while perhaps academic, underscores the quality and diversity of storytelling coming out of Sacramento.
Sacramento has already won with these nominations, as they validate the city’s potential and provide a platform for further growth in the entertainment sector. As more films consider Sacramento as a shooting location, it opens up new opportunities for local filmmakers, talent, and businesses to thrive within their home state.
Congratulations, Sac State alum Ryan Coogler! You’ve made your city proud with these historic nominations. 🎬🏆
