Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another' plunges viewers into a chillingly plausible near-future America, transformed into a fascist police state. Immigrants are detained en masse, law enforcement and the military have merged into an oppressive force, and a shadowy cabal of Christian nationalists secretly steers the nation's course. Amidst this oppressive landscape, a ragtag group of revolutionaries, known as the French 75, fight back with sporadic acts of defiance, from bank robberies to attacks on detention centers.
While the premise might sound like a bombastic political thriller, Anderson masterfully grounds the narrative in relatable human drama. The film avoids heavy-handed didacticism, instead focusing on the characters' struggles and relationships within this dystopian setting. The film introduces Perfidia Beverly Hills (Teyana Taylor), a charismatic revolutionary leader, who forms a partnership with Bob Ferguson (Leonardo DiCaprio), a demolitions expert. Their actions, however, are presented as quixotic gestures against an overwhelming force, highlighting the seemingly insurmountable odds faced by the rebels.
The film's most compelling element isn't the revolution itself, but the unexpected love triangle that emerges. Perfidia's capture by Col. Steven J. Lockjaw (Sean Penn), a stern yet subtly vulnerable military officer, leads to an unexpected and complicated connection. Their encounter results in a pregnancy, revealing a deeply unsettling truth: even the seemingly irreconcilable elements of this fractured society are ultimately intertwined.
'One Battle After Another' seamlessly blends genres. It's a drama, a thriller, a satire, and a potent allegory, all at once. Anderson's visual style, marked by evocative cinematography and intimate close-ups, enhances the film's emotional impact. The narrative unfolds with unpredictable twists, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The film's focus shifts from the revolution to the profound impact on Bob's life following the birth of his daughter, and his subsequent struggles in a world that has left him disillusioned. The story then leaps sixteen years ahead, revealing a new sinister plot and escalating the tension. The film features an exceptional ensemble cast, including Benicio del Toro and a chilling performance from Sean Penn. DiCaprio delivers a nuanced portrayal, showcasing his character’s evolution from revolutionary zealot to a flawed but ultimately devoted father.
Anderson's direction isn't just a commentary on political dystopia; it's a poignant exploration of family, loyalty, and hope in the face of overwhelming oppression. The film's powerful climax, a frenetic and exhilarating car chase, underscores Bob's unwavering commitment to protecting his daughter and his enduring struggle against a seemingly all-powerful system. Ultimately, 'One Battle After Another' serves as a stark warning, a captivating allegory, and a deeply personal exploration of what it means to fight for your family amidst a political nightmare. The film suggests that true revolution might not always involve grand gestures, but rather, the quiet, determined acts of love and resilience that maintain hope in a world seemingly devoid of it.
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Originally published at: https://variety.com/2025/film/reviews/one-battle-after-another-review-leonardo-dicaprio-sean-penn-1236520520/
