Key moments
In a groundbreaking achievement, Autumn Durald Arkapaw won the Oscar for Best Cinematography at the 2026 Academy Awards held on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre. This victory marks a significant milestone as Durald Arkapaw is the first woman and the first Black nominee to receive this prestigious award, highlighting a pivotal moment for representation in the film industry.
Durald Arkapaw, who is of Filipino and African American Creole descent, showcased her exceptional talent by shooting the film Sinners on 65mm film, utilizing IMAX 15-perf and Ultra Panavision 70 cameras. The film received a total of 16 nominations at the Oscars, underscoring its critical acclaim and Durald Arkapaw’s remarkable contribution to its visual storytelling.
During her acceptance speech, Durald Arkapaw expressed her gratitude, stating, “I really want all the women in the room to stand up, because I [wouldn’t be] here without you guys.” This statement resonated deeply, emphasizing the importance of female representation in the film industry and the collective effort of women in cinema.
In addition to Durald Arkapaw’s win, the film Sinners also celebrated other successes at the ceremony, with Michael B. Jordan winning Best Actor for his role and the film taking home the award for Best Original Screenplay. These achievements reflect the film’s strong narrative and artistic vision, further solidifying its impact in contemporary cinema.
The production of Sinners involved an extensive shooting schedule, with Durald Arkapaw dedicating 66 days to capture the film’s stunning visuals, including a notable three-day shoot for the Juke music sequence. Her meticulous approach to cinematography is evident in the film’s rich imagery and emotional depth.
Ryan Coogler, a prominent figure in the industry, celebrated the film’s success, exclaiming, “Big Movie! Big Movie!” This enthusiasm from fellow filmmakers highlights the significance of Durald Arkapaw’s win and the broader recognition of diverse voices in Hollywood.
As Durald Arkapaw accepted her award wearing a custom Thom Browne outfit, she reflected on the importance of collaboration in filmmaking. She stated, “I wouldn’t have come without him—it’s important that he’s a part of this and that he can be here with me and see all the hard work that goes into making these films.” This acknowledgment of teamwork underscores the collaborative nature of the film industry.
Durald Arkapaw’s historic win is not just a personal achievement but a landmark moment for representation behind the camera in Hollywood. It serves as an inspiration for future generations of filmmakers, particularly women and people of color, to pursue their dreams in an industry that is gradually becoming more inclusive. As the film community reflects on this significant event, the hope for continued progress in diversity and representation remains strong.