Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest film, One Battle After Another, is generating considerable buzz, with many viewers predicting it could be a frontrunner for Best Picture at the upcoming Academy Awards. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as a former member of a revolutionary-adventurist group reminiscent of the Weather Underground or the Black Liberation Army. The plot thickens when his daughter, played by Chase Infiniti, is kidnapped by agents of a dystopian American government, thrusting him back into his past.
While the film has received widespread acclaim, some critics have voiced minor concerns. One particular point of contention is the film’s use of absurdity, especially in performances by Teyana Taylor and Sean Penn, which some found excessively exaggerated. Anderson’s screenplay draws inspiration from Thomas Pynchon’s 1990 novel Vineland, which explores the lives of ex-radicals during Ronald Reagan’s presidency. Anderson transposes this theme into contemporary times, though the cultural references can feel anachronistic. For instance, DiCaprio’s character uses lyrics from a Gil Scott-Heron song as a password, prompting questions about the relevance of such references for characters meant to resonate with a younger generation.
The film makes subtle nods to broader sociopolitical issues, including the anti-speciesist struggle, even if it lacks direct engagement with the animal rights movement—an area the reviewer acknowledges as their own political home. The narrative evokes questions about effective resistance against fascism, showcased through the contrasting models provided by characters portrayed by Benicio Del Toro and Infiniti, which remain relevant in today’s sociopolitical climate.
As the film briefly touches on themes of vegetarianism through a storyline involving a group of vegetarian nuns—allegedly inspired by the real-life Sisters of the Valley, former activists who operate a marijuana business and uphold a vegan diet at certain times—the intersection of these movements highlights the film’s thematic depth.
Overall, One Battle After Another stands out as a powerful cinematic experience. The film effectively merges personal and political narratives, raising timely questions about resistance and activism in today’s world. DiCaprio continues to demonstrate his versatility as an actor, while Chase Infiniti impresses in her feature debut, promising a bright future ahead in the film industry. Anderson’s narrative resonates with the ongoing societal struggles, offering a reflection on the past while challenging viewers to consider the future.