Instagram/Paul Thomas Anderson Movie Paul Thomas Anderson wins his first Oscar for Best Director. Read his heartfelt acceptance speech and dedication to his collaborator. March 16, 2026 AceShowbiz - One Battle After Another director Paul Thomas Anderson earned his first-ever Oscar for Best Director at this year's Academy Awards. His win marks a significant milestone in a career filled with multiple nominations but no prior victories in this category. In his acceptance speech, Paul Thomas Anderson expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, "You make a guy work hard for one of these.