One Battle After Another Review: Leonardo DiCaprio Shines in Paul Thomas Anderson’s Bold Drama

Leonardo DiCaprio returns to the big screen with One Battle After Another, a film by Paul Thomas Anderson that blends action, comedy, and political drama. The movie opened to early critical buzz and is already seen as an Oscar frontrunner. It will be released in U.S. theaters on September 26, 2025.

The film follows DiCaprio as Bob Ferguson, an ageing insurgent turned father, forced to confront his past while protecting his daughter. With its mix of radical politics, dark humor, and emotional family struggles, the film has been called one of Anderson’s most daring works.

One Battle After Another Review: Story and Performances

DiCaprio plays Bob, a washed-up revolutionary who once fought on the U.S.–Mexico border. Now addicted and lost, he lives with his teenage daughter Willa. When his old enemy Colonel Lockjaw, played by Sean Penn, resurfaces, Bob must face the consequences of his past.

According to reports from Agence France Presse, the character was inspired in part by Jeff Bridges’ “The Dude” from The Big Lebowski. This adds humor to Bob’s flawed and fumbling nature. At times he forgets passwords, loses focus, and struggles with fatherhood, yet he keeps moving forward.

Penn’s villain brings menace and satire, tied to a group of white supremacists. Teyana Taylor’s role as Bob’s partner in earlier resistance scenes also adds depth. Newcomer Chase Infiniti as Willa brings fresh energy, grounding the story in a father-daughter bond.

Critics who saw early screenings described the performances as layered and human. Reuters noted that DiCaprio’s choice to play against his usual polished characters makes Bob more relatable than past roles.

Impact and Why It Matters

The film stands out for its mix of genres. Anderson’s direction balances political commentary with absurd comedy and emotional drama. The themes of tribalism, fractured communication, and generational trauma feel timely in 2025.

Industry analysts suggest the movie could dominate award season. DiCaprio’s performance is being compared to his earlier landmark roles, while Anderson’s script is praised for subverting spy and action clichés.

For audiences, One Battle After Another offers more than thrills. It shows the struggle of a flawed man trying to show up for his child. That humanity is what makes the film resonate. The comedy comes from Bob’s messy life, but the heart is in his fight to be a father.

In short, One Battle After Another is not only a gripping drama but also a social reflection. It is expected to be one of the most talked-about films of the year.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What is One Battle After Another about?

It tells the story of Bob Ferguson, a failed revolutionary who must face his past while protecting his teenage daughter from an old enemy.

Q2: Who stars in the movie?

Leonardo DiCaprio plays Bob. Sean Penn plays Colonel Lockjaw. Teyana Taylor and newcomer Chase Infiniti also star.

Q3: Who directed the film?

The movie was directed and written by Paul Thomas Anderson, known for films like *There Will Be Blood* and *Boogie Nights*.

Q4: When will it be released?

The U.S. release date is September 26, 2025. It is expected to expand internationally afterward.

Q5: Is the movie expected to win awards?

Yes. Early reactions suggest it will be a strong contender for Best Picture and acting awards at the Academy Awards.