Paul. Thomas. Anderson.
One Battle After Another instantly grips you from the very first shot and keeps you hooked for the entire incredibly-long 162 runtime, which Paul Thomas Anderson manages to pace impeccably well. The lengthy chase scenes and extensive action sequences are equal parts enthralling. The combination of PTA’s fast-paced directing and the anxious, busy score effortlessly builds the relentless suspense and aching tension that persists for the majority of the film. All of this culminates in a perfectly built-up and constructed ending, leading to a climax that was both bone-chillingly tense and incredibly cathartic. The film was also a lot more humorous than I expected, with every single actor nailing their comedic timings. PTA harmoniously balances this humor with the melancholic yet touching family drama as well as the pressing political and social themes.
When it comes to performances, both in terms of specific performances and the ensemble cast as a whole, no other 2025 films really come close (other than Sinners). I’ve always been a firm believer that Leo is one of the best at capturing and selling genuine human emotion and his performance in One Battle After Another is only further proof of that, as he was truly phenomenal as Bob Ferguson. DiCaprio perfectly showcases all sides of Bob’s personality. He may be paranoid, overbearing, and still haunted by his past, but it’s because he loves and cares for his daughter so deeply, because he would do anything to protect her and keep her safe. He portrays the empathetic role with such honesty, vulnerability, charm, and swag that it’s impossible not to fall in love with his character. The little, sweet moments that Bob shares with his daughter, Willa, are everything and really establish the emotional beats of the story. Speaking of his daughter, Chase Infiniti gives such a powerful, stellar film debut performance as Willa and I’m really excited to see what she does next. And Sean Penn gives arguably his career-defining performance; you can tell he was dedicated to the role because he was undeniably brutal, viciously relentless, and (quite literally) hardened as Colonel Lockjaw. Teyana Taylor and Regina Hall have limited screen time, but I guarantee you’ll feel their importance and the commanding, determined presence that both bring to the film. And how could I forget about Benicio del Toro, who was the perfect comedic and charismatic addition to the cast and truly makes the film that more enjoyable. Also, his character in particular shines a light on the unspoken, everyday heroes who go above and beyond to take care of struggling immigrants and other individuals in need.
And what makes this film truly special is its core message. One Battle After Another is the perfect title for this film because the film renders America as an endless fight for love over hate, freedom over oppression, peace over violence, acceptance over prejudice, and ultimately life over death. The film deliberately shifts between being humorous, serious, suspenseful, intense, and sincere, effectively creating a sort of tonal whiplash that flawlessly mimics how quickly your own situation can shift within the current state of society. One battle you’re protesting and standing up for the equality, livelihood, and humane treatment of all individuals, and the next you’re fighting for your own life, your own safety and survival. While the story is actually set in the near future, it appears as though Paul Thomas Anderson is criticizing the American political landscape in the film. He seemingly condemns the United States government and the blatant hypocrisy, corruption, and discriminatory cruelty of its actions, specifically in regards to the treatment of immigrants and the brutality of militarized violence by armed forces. Whether you agree with the film’s depiction of America, or find that it promotes violence against law enforcement whilst glorifying extreme radicalism, you can’t deny the boldness and bravery in making such a critique of the United States landscape, especially in a time when politics is such a hot and pressing topic. I believe the main takeaway of the film to be an attestation to the bravery and courage of the American people. Despite the risk and pushback that comes with rebellion, there will be individuals who’ll dare to stand up and take action for what they believe is right. The film thrives on the idea that there’s a level of heredity in the human struggle, that the fight for justice is passed through generations of individuals determined to make real change. I’d argue that there’s a sense of comfort and beauty knowing that in the end, day after day, battle after battle, there will always be heroic, courageous, and dedicated people who aren’t afraid to stand up for what they believe in, that refuse to lose sight of their purpose and their beliefs. I think this truth about humanity is what Paul Thomas Anderson hoped to illuminate.
One Battle After Another is the sort of film that many directors can only dream of making. Paul Thomas Anderson proves his brilliance and talent as a full-blown filmmaker by making an unbelievably phenomenal action-drama blockbuster, but he also showcases his talent as a writer with a deep understanding of society and the human struggle. It’s not easy to pull off pairing the grand scale of an action blockbuster with the tenderness and intimacy of a familial drama yet Paul Thomas Anderson proves that it’s possible. There’s been much discourse online about whether this stacks up against other 2025 films, and while I personally loved Sinners as much as the next guy, I’m quite confident in saying that One Battle After Another is at the very least my favorite, if not that best, film that we’ve gotten so far this year.
Make sure to catch One Battle After Another before it leaves theaters and keep an eye out for this film as award season rolls around.
¡Viva la revolución!
