Teyana Taylor is generating major Oscar buzz following her breakout performance in One Battle After Another, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. The film, released in September 2025, has been hailed as a critical triumph, with Taylor’s role drawing praise from industry insiders and critics alike. According to The Hollywood Reporter, her portrayal has positioned her as an early frontrunner in the Best Actress category. This marks a significant shift for the multi-talented artist, whose career spans music, choreography, and now award-worthy acting.
🔹 WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY, HOW
Teyana Taylor stars in One Battle After Another, a 2025 action thriller directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and based on Thomas Pynchon’s novel Vineland. The film premiered at the TCL Chinese Theatre on September 8 and was released nationwide on September 26. Taylor’s performance has sparked Oscar buzz due to its emotional depth and commanding screen presence. Her transition from music to acting began with A Thousand and One, which won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance in 2023. Taylor’s rise reflects years of dedication across multiple creative fields.
Career Milestones and Film Stats
- Film: One Battle After Another
- Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson
- Co-stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Regina Hall
- Budget: $130–175 million
- Box Office: $191 million
- Release: September 2025
- Taylor’s Role: A pivotal character navigating political and personal turmoil
- Previous Work:
- A Thousand and One (2023)
- VMA-winning choreography for Beyoncé’s “Fade”
- Signed to Kanye West’s GOOD Music label
Taylor’s versatility has made her a standout in both music and film.
Reactions: Industry Praise and On-Set Impressions
Ben Affleck, whose production company cast Taylor in an upcoming Netflix thriller, said she “impressed everyone on set.” Paul Thomas Anderson reportedly praised her “raw intensity and emotional control.” The Hollywood Reporter noted, “Hollywood is finally begging for more.” Critics have highlighted her ability to command the screen alongside veteran actors, calling her performance “a revelation.”
Awards Season and Career Trajectory
Taylor’s Oscar buzz places her among the top contenders for the 2026 awards season. Her success in One Battle After Another could open doors for more dramatic roles and directorial opportunities. She is currently developing a feature debut with Paramount and stars in Hulu’s All’s Fair. Her growing influence in Hollywood reflects a broader shift toward recognizing multi-hyphenate talent.
What’s Next: Upcoming Projects and Awards Timeline
- Hulu Series: All’s Fair
- Netflix Thriller: Produced by Affleck and Damon
- Directorial Debut: In development with Paramount
- Oscar Nominations: Expected announcement in January 2026
- Awards Season: February–March 2026
Taylor continues to prioritize family life, balancing her rising career with time spent with her two daughters.
