Benicio Del Toro Nominated for Oscar

Everythiiing

Jan 22, 2026 • 3 min read

Benicio Del Toro smiling at a film premiere, holding an award statue.

Benicio Del Toro Nominated for Oscar in 'Una Batalla Tras Otra'

The Puerto Rican actor Benicio Del Toro has been nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the dark comedy 'Una batalla tras otra', directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. This marks Del Toro's second nomination in the same category, following his win in 2001 for 'Traffic' and a nomination in 2004 for '21 Grams'.

The Film: A Dark Comedy with a Twist

'Una batalla tras otra' is a suspenseful action-comedy that also features elements of dark humor. The film is adapted from a novel and follows the story of Leonardo DiCaprio's character, who is involved in a complex web of ambition and rivalry. Del Toro plays St. Carlos, a sensei of karate and a protector of the undocumented community in Baktan Cross. His performance has been lauded by critics for its depth and complexity.

St. Carlos: A Character with Depth

St. Carlos is a pivotal character in the film, serving as a mentor and guardian to those in need. Del Toro's portrayal of this character showcases his ability to bring nuance and authenticity to his roles. The actor has often been praised for his versatility, and this role is no exception.

Competition in the Best Supporting Actor Category

Del Toro is not the only one vying for the Best Supporting Actor award this year. He shares the category with Sean Penn, who also stars in 'Una batalla tras otra', as well as Jacob Elordi ('Frankenstein'), Delroy Lindo ('Los pecadores'), and Stellan Skarsgard ('Valor sentimental'). The competition is stiff, but Del Toro's previous accolades and widespread acclaim for his work make him a strong contender.

Sean Penn: A Fellow Nominee

Sean Penn's inclusion in the category adds an interesting dynamic, as both actors have worked together on 'Una batalla tras otra'. This marks the first time in recent years that two actors from the same film have been nominated in the same category, adding to the excitement surrounding the awards season.

Del Toro's Career Highlights

Benicio Del Toro's career has been marked by several standout performances that have earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards. His win in 2001 for 'Traffic' was a career-defining moment, establishing him as one of the most talented actors of his generation. His nomination for '21 Grams' further solidified his reputation for delivering powerful performances.

'Traffic': A Breakthrough Role

In 'Traffic', Del Toro played Javier Rodriguez Rodriguez, a Mexican cop who becomes involved with drug lords. His performance was so compelling that it earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film, which explored the complexities of the drug trade, was both a critical and commercial success.

'21 Grams': Another Stellar Performance

Del Toro's role in '21 Grams' as a former death row inmate seeking revenge was another highlight of his career. The film, which also starred Sean Penn and Naomi Watts, was praised for its emotional intensity and innovative storytelling. Del Toro's performance was once again lauded by critics, earning him another Oscar nomination.

The Road to the Oscars

The 98th Academy Awards ceremony will take place on March 15, and anticipation is already building. Del Toro's nomination has added to the excitement, with many fans and critics alike speculating about his chances of winning his second Oscar. The actor has always been known for his dedication to his craft, and this nomination is a testament to his continued excellence.

Paul Thomas Anderson's Vision

Director Paul Thomas Anderson has a reputation for creating films that are both visually stunning and thematically rich. 'Una batalla tras otra' is no exception, combining elements of action, suspense, and dark comedy to create a unique cinematic experience. Del Toro's performance is a key part of this vision, and his nomination underscores the film's overall quality.

Conclusion

Benicio Del Toro's nomination for 'Una batalla tras otra' is a significant milestone in his already impressive career. As he prepares for the Academy Awards, fans and critics alike are eagerly awaiting the outcome. Whether he wins or not, his contribution to cinema is undeniable, and his performances continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

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