Ryan Coogler and Paul Thomas Anderson, two of the standout winners at Sunday night’s Academy Awards, were seen sharing a warm moment after the ceremony, signaling that any rivalry between the acclaimed filmmakers remained friendly.
The directors crossed paths outside Craig’s shortly after the awards show. Video from the scene showed Coogler leaving the popular West Hollywood restaurant as Anderson arrived. Upon spotting one another, the pair embraced, appearing to celebrate their respective successes.
Both filmmakers had strong showings during the ceremony. Coogler won the Oscar for Best Screenplay for his film Sinners, while Anderson secured two major awards — Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Director — for One Battle After Another.
The two films were widely viewed as leading contenders for Best Picture heading into the night. Ultimately, One Battle After Another claimed the top prize, capping off a successful evening for Anderson and his team.
Despite the competitive stakes, the brief exchange outside the restaurant highlighted the mutual respect between the two filmmakers following a closely watched Oscars contest.#newsafro_
