Los Angeles, California – Director Christopher Nolan earned his first DGA Award for his historical epic “Oppenheimer” at the Directors Guild of America Awards on Saturday night. The ceremony also saw Celine Song winning the Michael Apted Award for first feature with “Past Lives,” and Mstyslav Chernov winning for his Oscar-nominated documentary “20 Days in Mariupol.”
In the TV categories, “The Last of Us” director Peter Hoar, “The Bear” creator Christopher Storer, and “Lessons in Chemistry” director Sarah Adina Smith were among the winners. DGA president Lesli Linka Glatter acknowledged the previous year’s double strike in the industry, expressing gratitude for being back on set and recognizing the work and achievements of fellow guilds.
Host Judd Apatow referenced last year’s strike, humorously commenting on his acceptance of the DGA’s first offer. Throughout the evening, other directors were also honored for their contributions to the film and television industry.
In a heartfelt moment, Greta Gerwig accepted an award, and Yorgos Lanthimos acknowledged the influence of legendary director Martin Scorsese, while Christopher Nolan expressed gratitude to his team and wife Emma Thomas. Martin Scorsese himself was honored and thanked the DGA for 13 career nominations.
The Directors Guild also recognized David Nutter with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Television, Janet G. Knutsen with the Frank Capra Achievement Award, and Gary Natoli with the Franklin J. Schaffner Achievement Award.
The event concluded with a list of winners for various categories, highlighting exceptional achievements in theatrical feature film, first-time theatrical feature film, dramatic series, comedy series, movies for television and limited series, and more.
The DGA Awards ceremony showcased an array of talent and dedication in the film and television industry, ultimately celebrating the outstanding directors and their contributions to the art of storytelling.