Hollywood’s biggest night is often preceded by glamorous industry gatherings where studios celebrate their films and the people behind them. These events are not only about celebration but also give studio leaders a chance to spotlight the artists who helped create some of the year’s most talked-about projects. Ahead of this year’s ceremony, David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, spoke at a star-studded event celebrating the studio’s Oscar contenders. With the company enjoying a strong awards-season run, he used the moment to highlight the filmmakers behind two of its biggest films.

With One Battle After Another and Sinners leading almost every award show talk, it was only a matter of time before David Zaslav tipped his hat to Ryan Coogler and Paul Thomas Anderson.

During a speech at the Warner Bros. pre-Oscars party held ahead of the 98th Academy Awards, David Zaslav praised directors Ryan Coogler and Paul Thomas Anderson.

"The greatest" in terms of filmmakers of this generation, Zaslav called them.

While passionately discussing the art of getting people back to the theatres at a time where streaming platforms are all the rage, the CEO further credited the nominated directors for keeping the magic of cinema alive.

As reported by Variety, David Zaslav highlighted Ryan Coogler’s Sinners and Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another while addressing the crowd. 

The gathering included several high-profile attendees linked to the projects, including actor Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler himself, as the studio celebrated its strong Oscar momentum heading into the ceremony.

‘The Devil Wears Prada’ Cast Set for Surprise Cameo at the 2026 Oscars

David Zaslav’s remarks did not stop at praising filmmakers, the studio chief also took a moment to spotlight Warner Bros.’ remarkable awards-season momentum.

Opening the Warner Bros. pre-Oscars party on Saturday night ahead of the 98th Academy Awards, David Zaslav used his remarks to spotlight what he described as a remarkable moment for the studio. The Warner Bros. Discovery chief highlighted the company’s impressive awards-season performance, noting that its films collectively secured more than 30 nominations across major categories.

David Zaslav described the achievement as a truly golden moment and framed it as proof that the studio’s commitment to theatrical storytelling is paying off.

The executive also said the strong nomination count reflects Warner Bros.’ focus on supporting bold filmmaking and creative storytellers. His speech set a positive tone for the evening as he praised the teams behind the nominated films and thanked the filmmakers, actors, and crews who worked on them. With many stars in attendance, the event became a celebration of the studio’s success ahead of one of Hollywood’s biggest nights.

Chadwick Boseman’s Widow Unveils the Heartwarming Oscar Speech She Never Got to Tell

Do you think Warner Bros.’ major nomination haul will translate into big wins on Oscar night? Let us know in the comments!