Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” is a sprawling, messy epic that tackles modern America’s struggles with gun violence, white power, and immigrant deportations. The film follows Bob Ferguson (Leonardo DiCaprio), a washed-up revolutionary living off the grid with his teenage daughter Willa (Chase Infiniti). As they navigate their complex relationships and the cycles of oppression and resistance, Anderson’s destabilizing approach to big themes yields poignant and revelatory moments.
The film’s 170-minute runtime feels intimate and fast-paced, thanks in part to its powerful opening prologue featuring Teyana Taylor as Perfidia Beverly Hills. This scene sets the tone for a frenetic eruption of Black and female power, which is both captivating and chaotic. As the story unfolds, Anderson tackles issues like racism, xenophobia, and vigilantism with straightforward representations that feel true.
DiCaprio delivers a standout performance as Bob, who has grown less connected to the world. His character’s Lebowski-esque quirks add depth to the film, while Infiniti shines as Willa, who embodies her mother’s courage. The supporting cast, including Sean Penn and Benicio Del Toro, adds to the film’s moral complexity.
Overall, “One Battle After Another” is a major studio release that feels like an exception in modern-day Hollywood. With its swelling score by Johnny Greenwood and its abiding fighting spirit, it’s a must-see for fans of Paul Thomas Anderson and anyone interested in contemporary American cinema.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/one-battle-after-another-review-pta-dicaprio-354b5503260e63ff724a7ab8847d946c