One Battle After Another

If you're into wild, politically charged thrillers with a heart, One Battle After Another might just be your next favorite movie. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, this 2025 action thriller is a sprawling, high-energy ride that blends revolutionary drama, family bonds, and a hefty dose of paranoia. It stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Bob, a washed-up ex-revolutionary living off the grid with his fiercely independent daughter, Willa, played by breakout star Chase Infiniti. When Bob’s old nemesis resurfaces and Willa goes missing, the story kicks into high gear, dragging both father and daughter into a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

The film is inspired by Thomas Pynchon’s novel Vineland, but Anderson mixes in his own stories to create something uniquely his. It’s a big, bold movie—clocking in at 162 minutes—with a massive budget and a visual style that’s both retro and cinematic, thanks to its use of VistaVision film. The action is intense, the themes are timely, and the emotional core—centered on the strained but powerful bond between Bob and Willa—gives the film real depth.

One Battle After Another has been praised for its thrilling set pieces, sharp political commentary, and standout performances. DiCaprio brings a mix of humor and heartbreak to his role, while Sean Penn delivers a chilling turn as the film’s villain. Critics have called it Anderson’s most entertaining and thematically rich film yet, and audiences have responded with enthusiasm, giving it high marks across the board.

That said, this isn’t a movie for everyone. If you’re not into politically charged narratives or find long, complex plots overwhelming, it might not be your cup of tea. Some viewers have found it a bit overstuffed or scattershot, and its sympathetic portrayal of radical activism has sparked some controversy.

But for fans of Anderson’s work, lovers of epic thrillers, or anyone who enjoys a mix of action, emotion, and social commentary, One Battle After Another is a must-see. It’s a film that demands your attention—and rewards it with a wild, unforgettable ride.