If you love films that blend gripping action with deep emotional journeys—and a touch of humor—then One Battle After Another should be on your radar this year. This highly anticipated movie tells the story of a father and daughter living off the grid, caught up in a tense struggle against a haunting past. It’s a film that keeps you on the edge of your seat while exploring heartfelt themes of family and redemption.
Behind this captivating story is visionary filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson, who has been perfecting the script for over 20 years. Written, directed, and produced by Anderson, One Battle After Another combines intense thrills with moments of humor and sincerity, all anchored by powerful performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Chase Infiniti, and Sean Penn.
Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
The film follows Bob (Leonardo DiCaprio), a once-radical revolutionary now living off the grid in a state of stoned paranoia, alongside his spirited, self-reliant daughter, Willa (Chase Infiniti). When Bob’s evil nemesis (Sean Penn) suddenly reappears after 16 years and Willa goes missing, Bob embarks on a desperate search that forces both father and daughter to face consequences from his tumultuous past. The cast also includes Benicio Del Toro, Regina Hall, and Teyana Taylor, adding further depth to this action-packed thriller.
Producer Sara Murphy describes the story as deeply grounded despite its intense action. She praises Anderson’s world-building, noting how he creates heightened versions of various factions that introduce a dynamic mix of villains, allies, and complex characters. “Paul’s done some incredible world-building, introducing heightened versions of various factions that introduce a myriad of villains and foes and friends along the way. Through all that, it’s a really fun, action-packed thriller from start to finish, with a lot of laughs. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but at the end of the day, it’s a truly emotional journey of this father and daughter.”
Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
The humor in the film comes from Anderson’s distinct approach. “The things I think are funny are the things I think are funny, it’s kind of that simple,” Anderson explains. “When you’re collaborating with actors on set, if they try too hard to be funny, it won’t work. Humor tends to come from sincerity and dedication. But if there’s a silly idea for a cheap laugh, I’m all for it.” This blend of humor and heart has struck a chord with audiences.
Reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Steven Spielberg, who recently moderated a Q&A with Anderson at the Director’s Guild of America theater in Los Angeles, shared that he “had a great time laughing all the way” through the film.
Watch the trailer of One Battle After Another below!
Warner Bros. Pictures presents One Battle After Another, a Ghoulardi Film Company production and a Paul Thomas Anderson film. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, the movie will be in theaters and IMAX® nationwide starting September 24, 2025. #OneBattleAfterAnother
