Director Paul Thomas Anderson returns with One Battle After Another, a film that has been years in the making and finally brings together Anderson with star Leonardo DiCaprio, who narrowly missed collaborating on Boogie Nights. The highly anticipated film also features Sean Penn in a chilling antagonist role. Loosely based on Thomas Pynchon’s novel Vineland, this cinematic offering is a sprawling, high-octane action drama with a powerful human core.
The story kicks off with a dramatic assault on a Mexican border detention facility, spearheaded by the radical group French 75. Among them is Bob Ferguson (Leonardo DiCaprio), a former revolutionary who has faded from public life. His former comrade and lover, Perfidia Beverly Hills (Teyana Taylor), leads the charge, while Colonel Steven Lockjaw (Sean Penn) represents the oppressive force against them. As their movement unravels, Bob finds himself raising his daughter, Willa (Chase Infiniti). Their evolving relationship forms the emotional anchor of the film, especially as old conflicts resurface. Lockjaw’s obsession with Perfidia pulls Bob and Willa back into a dangerous world of chases, betrayals, and intrigue. Guided by a martial arts mentor (Benicio del Toro), Willa discovers her own strength, while Bob grapples with his disillusionment and paranoia.
The Good:
Anderson excels at blending disparate tones, seamlessly merging intense action with philosophical depth. The desert car chases are captured with a dreamlike clarity, reminiscent of Alejandro Jodorowsky’s work, yet the film never loses sight of its central father-daughter bond. DiCaprio delivers a performance of raw vulnerability and fierce love, positioning him as a strong contender for awards season. Newcomer Chase Infiniti holds her own, adding sharp wit and defiance to her scenes with DiCaprio. Sean Penn is menacing and magnetic as the villainous Colonel Lockjaw, and Teyana Taylor commands attention as the fiery Perfidia. The film’s technical execution is exhilarating, complemented by Jonny Greenwood’s gripping score.
The Bad:
Despite its ambition, One Battle After Another occasionally feels weighed down by its numerous themes, including immigration, white supremacy, and surveillance. The spectacular, over-the-top climaxes might divide audiences, and the rapid tonal shifts between brutal violence and dark comedy could be jarring for some. At nearly three hours, the film’s relentless pace might prove exhausting for viewers.
The Verdict:
One Battle After Another is a complex, anarchic film that mirrors the fractured state of the world. It’s a testament to Anderson’s skill in weaving intimate human drama into grand cinematic spectacle. DiCaprio offers one of his most compelling performances, supported by strong turns from Penn, Taylor, and the breakout talent Chase Infiniti. While undeniably messy and excessive, this excess serves a purpose, reflecting the ongoing political and personal struggles it portrays. It’s a feverish action epic and a touching family drama that reminds us of the enduring fight for love and meaning amidst chaos.