A new movie “One Battle After Another” by Paul Thomas Anderson has sparked debate about its relevance in today’s Hollywood. Released before Donald Trump’s return, the film’s anti-fascist stance is more pronounced now than ever.
The thriller combines humor with a dystopian premise, showcasing an anti-immigrant fanatic who seeks to destroy a sanctuary city under false pretenses. The movie portrays a white nationalist cabal at the highest levels of American society, eerily similar to Trump’s rhetoric.
Despite being rapturously reviewed, critics and Goldberg argue that the film’s artistic value should be separated from its politics. At a time when an autocratic administration is silencing cultural institutions, “One Battle After Another” offers a refreshing, progressive perspective on authoritarianism and resistance.
Goldberg praises the film for tackling complex topics like left-wing violence and self-serving radicalism, taking a clear stance against the fight between authoritarianism and resistance.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/29/opinion/one-battle-after-another-fascism.html