Paul Thomas Anderson's ambitious 'One Battle After Another,' a $140 million production starring Leonardo DiCaprio, is poised for a significant box office debut. Industry analysts predict a worldwide opening weekend in the $50 million range, with a projected $20-$25 million domestic haul and an additional $25 million internationally. This would mark Anderson's highest-grossing opening ever, surpassing even the success of his critically acclaimed 'There Will Be Blood.'
The film's production boasts several noteworthy aspects, including its use of VistaVision, a bold choice for a modern release, and its strategic bypass of major fall film festivals in favor of a direct awards-season push. Despite the high-stakes gamble, early critical reception is overwhelmingly positive, with a 98% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. For Warner Bros., the film represents a long-term investment, not a quick win. The studio's gamble is further mitigated by the significant box office potential associated with both Anderson and DiCaprio.
The film's marketing strategy has leveraged DiCaprio's star power extensively, featuring him in high-profile interviews and appearances across various media platforms, including red carpet premieres, podcasts, and late-night television. DiCaprio's history of delivering strong box office openings for films with auteurs lends considerable weight to these efforts. The initial marketing push initially aimed for a $40 million opening, a target considered comparable to the success of 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.'
The film's marketing also made use of a well-timed trailer release, CinemaCon screenings and prominent placement across NFL games. However, the film's intrinsic quality and thrilling 2-hour, 41-minute running time are arguably its most effective marketing tools, offering a dynamic and engaging cinematic experience.
Comparisons with other recent DiCaprio projects, such as 'Killers of the Flower Moon,' are also informative. While 'Killers of the Flower Moon' opened to $23.2 million despite a 3-hour, 26-minute runtime and the limitations imposed by the actors' strike, 'One Battle After Another' is expected to outperform it, benefiting from a strong marketing campaign and positive critical buzz. The film's shorter runtime may also prove advantageous in attracting wider viewership.
Despite the positive momentum, the film's liberal-leaning narrative may present challenges in certain market segments. However, the core narrative of an anarchist's struggle against oppression, particularly resonating with current political climate, could prove a powerful draw. Advance ticket sales are reportedly exceeding those of 'Killers of the Flower Moon,' suggesting a strong opening is likely. The film's release spans 3,500 theaters domestically and a staggering 17,000 screens globally, targeting diverse markets.
Opening alongside 'One Battle After Another' are Universal/DreamWorks' family-friendly 'Gabby’s Dollhouse' and Lionsgate’s horror sequel, 'Strangers: Chapter 2.' The competition presents a mixed bag, with 'Gabby’s Dollhouse' likely attracting a significantly different audience, while 'Strangers: Chapter 2' could potentially compete for the horror genre segment. Ultimately, the success of 'One Battle After Another' will depend on a combination of factors, including critical reception, audience engagement, and effective marketing, against the backdrop of considerable competition in the broader market.
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Originally published at: https://deadline.com/2025/09/one-battle-after-another-box-office-1236553940/
