About the film (courtesy of Warner Bros.):
Washed-up revolutionary Bob (Leonardo DiCaprio) exists in a state of stoned paranoia, surviving off-grid with his spirited, self-reliant daughter, Willa (Chase Infiniti). When his evil nemesis (Sean Penn) resurfaces after 16 years and she goes missing, the former radical scrambles to find her, father and daughter both battling the consequences of his past.
One Battle After Another, despite being my least liked title of film this year, has found its way to the tippy top of my Top Films of 2025 list three quarters of the way through the year. In short, Paul Thomas Anderson hits the trifecta with great acting performances, Tarantino-esque character depth and a compelling story that keeps you hooked throughout its 161 minute race towards excellence. Yes, I’m setting the bar high, but I truly feel this effort deserves it.
Paul Thomas Anderson has done very well in his directorial career with gems such as Boogie Nights (1997), Magnolia (1999) and There Will Be Blood (2007) pleasing audiences and critics alike. One Battle After Another is even better. Once again tapping the writings of novelist Thomas Pynchon, who Anderson adapted Inherent Vice (2014) from, the plot flows from the pages of the 1990 novel Vineyard to the big screen seemingly freely and whimsically, but also has a purposeful destination in mind. This almost seems hard to believe, and I can’t believe I’m saying this, but there is hardly a wasted scene that doesn’t advance the story in some way, shape or form. That’s crazy given its runtime.
The performances in One Battle After Another are a masterclass in emotional depth and nuance. The cast is an undeniable strength, with each actor delivering a performance so genuine and immersive it’s easy to forget you’re watching a movie. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, creating a dynamic that feels authentic and lived-in. Their portrayals are a perfect blend of vulnerability and strength, making the characters’ struggles and triumphs feel deeply personal. It’s the kind of acting that stays with you long after the credits roll, cementing the movie’s status as a must-see for anyone who appreciates the craft.
In particular there are two performances that stand out above all else, Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn. Both actors commit fully to their on-screen personas while showing strength, grit, determination, imbalances and certifiably insane behaviors throughout their roller coaster storylines. I have little to no doubt that there will be Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor nods, respectively, coming there way once the cinematic dust has settled. And that’s not to say that there aren’t other great performances. It’s just these two are better.
Beyond the acting and the plot, One Battle After Another is a triumph of technical execution. The cinematography is stunning, capturing every moment with a striking visual style that elevates the entire experience. The score is equally impressive, perfectly complementing the mood and tension of each scene. The sound design is crisp and impactful, pulling you further into the action. It all comes together to create a film that is not only entertaining but also a beautiful work of art. The overall tone is mature and thoughtful, exploring complex themes without ever feeling preachy or heavy-handed. It’s a film that could spark a great conversation, especially with all that’s going on in today’s society…
For its compelling narrative, powerful acting, and an overall entertainment value that makes it a highly recommended watch. For anyone looking for a movie that delivers a truly memorable experience, this is the one. One Battle After Another is a must-see, so empty those bladders and get the theater this Friday, September 26th.
