“One Battle After Another,” the much-anticipated Warner Bros. film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio del Toro, and Sean Penn, is proving to be as much a boon for San Diego County as it is a hotly-tipped Oscar contender. Although not set for theatrical release until Friday, the movie has already had a significant economic impact on the region.
Filming took place over six weeks in 2024, with the production infusing nearly $7 million into the local economy. This substantial contribution spanned various sectors, including lodging, food services, wages for extras and technicians, and the procurement of filming materials. The project also saw collaboration between the film’s producers and local governmental bodies such as the Office of Economic Development and Government Affairs, demonstrating the county’s commitment to supporting film industry endeavors.
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, renowned for his works like “There Will Be Blood” and “The Master,” the movie follows DiCaprio’s character, a former revolutionary facing old tensions. His counterpart, played by Sean Penn, adds complexity to the narrative, promising audiences an engaging cinematic experience.
The movie, which premiered in Los Angeles on September 8th, has already garnered positive critical attention, enhancing its Oscar potential. Moreover, the film’s success could signal increased interest from Hollywood in San Diego’s versatile locales, historically seen in films like “Top Gun” and “Almost Famous.”
Steve Lockett, deputy director of the County’s Office of Economic Development and Government Affairs, highlighted that the film’s production extended beyond initial plans due to the favorable shooting environment and excellent cooperation with local authorities. This collaboration extended through various jurisdictions, particularly during sequences filmed near the border and in Borrego Springs, which included notable scenes like car chases and explosions.
The project exemplifies the benefits of an attractive filming destination, providing a swift and cost-effective permitting process with diverse shooting locations. County officials are optimistic that this movie will catalyze more interest from the film and television industry, seeking to bring additional economic opportunities through future productions.
Giang Meyers, former EDGA creative economy manager, expressed hope that this filmmaking venture would pave the way for more projects in San Diego. The return on investment for these counties, in terms of both financial influx and exposure, is promising, showing how crucial film production can be in bolstering local economies.