Like unlike you’ve ever seen, Paul Thomas Anderson’s crazy swing film resonates with the time we’re in.
When a film has the same impact on culture as a dose of heroin, there is no one method to tell when it has done so. However, you can sense it when it occurs. It used to occur frequently, but in the modern world, when we are surrounded by a vast amount of material, much of it has broken apart into distinct silos, it is less common. Even “hit television” and “blockbuster movies,” which were previously associated with “mass culture,” are no longer the hegemonic, all-eyes-on-this, collective attention-grabbing forces that they once were. Because of this, Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another,” an all too uncommon film that has the potential to dominate the cultural discourse, is a glorious throwback.
Let’s be clear about why this movie resonates so powerfully. “One Battle After Another” strikes a chord with the current moment like nothing else — and that moment is unprecedented. As the United States edges closer to autocracy day by day, it’s a situation that should alarm everyone. Yet autocracy has a way of numbing people, fostering delusion, fear, and self-perpetuating apathy. That seems to be exactly what’s happening in America today.
Gavin Newsom shouldn’t be the only voice warning that the country risks not having fair elections in 2028 — leaders, citizens, and journalists alike should be sounding the alarm. But too many of us exist in a limbo between resistance and despair, and that is precisely the tense, unsettling atmosphere that “One Battle After Another” captures so brilliantly.
Well-liked on Business Connect
It takes place in what appears and feels like the police-state America that the country may become in the coming years. Furthermore, the film’s eerie atmosphere extends beyond its authoritarian setting’s predictive nature. (The Hunger Games is not this.) It’s how “One Battle After Another” challenges us to spend two hours and forty-one minutes living within the cave of our anger and worry, our apathy and disobedience; it’s how the movie elicits realizations and a sort of breath-taking catharsis. The film functions as a magnified mirror.
Judging by its ecstatic reviews, the early intensity of its awards buzz, and the strong box-office performance this past weekend — which shows that audiences are actually listening to critics, something that doesn’t always happen — “One Battle After Another” seems poised to be a phenomenon. This isn’t just a rare adult drama that becomes a hit; it’s a film likely to spark countless conversations and generate its own energy.
Even blockbuster hits rarely achieve that level of cultural resonance today, and many critically acclaimed films provoke discussion only within a small, insular bubble. Think of last year’s “Anora” or “The Brutalist”, or perhaps this year’s “Materialists”, a clever rom-com that had the chattering classes on both coasts debating the intersection of romance and real estate prices. “One Battle After Another” has that rare combination of critical acclaim, audience enthusiasm, and social buzz that can make a movie truly unforgettable.
“One Battle After Another” is a wildly entertaining and thrillingly unpredictable political screwball that, on some level, forces viewers to confront the fate of the country. It makes you ask: What is happening to America? Where is all of this headed? Will it really be as threatening as the film suggests? That sense of looming uncertainty is as chilling as any moment in Jaws, and this film could be one of the rare experiences that electrifies audiences by connecting directly with their lives.
To find a recent film that captured the zeitgeist so perfectly, one might look back to Oliver Stone’s Wall Street, which hit theaters just seven weeks after the 1987 stock-market crash, offering a sharp, almost cathartic reflection on the Greed Decade. Even earlier, All the President’s Men, released two years after Nixon’s resignation, resonated deeply with audiences by acting as a national reckoning on Watergate, challenging values and reshaping perspectives. “One Battle After Another” has that rare cultural immediacy, speaking directly to the anxieties and tensions of the present moment.
In that regard, “One Battle After Another” appears to be debuting in the ideal week. One turning point was the Jimmy Kimmel scandal, which turned out to be a significant win for free expression. This appears to be the case with James Comey’s indictment. (We can only wish for one to finish as victorious as Kimmel.) The intensity of the film is only heightened by these seismic occurrences. “One Battle After Another” is a ten out of ten on the relevancy scale, but as masterfully produced by Anderson, who was at the height of his abilities, it’s also the type of engrossing and inspiring film that leaves its thoughts in your mind. You want to discuss, argue, and think about it.
Here’s a prediction that might sound counterintuitive, but I’ll stand by it: a significant portion of this film’s audience could come from the political right. Traditionally, red-state viewers have shied away from movies like Civil War, seeing them as liberal-left propaganda. Yet there’s something about the grand vision of One Battle After Another that may feel uniquely compelling. Leonardo DiCaprio’s most inspired and relatable performance in years certainly helps.
The film follows an underground band of revolutionary guerrillas, but instead of glorifying them as heroes, it portrays them in shades of gray, highlighting their naïveté and self-interest. Sean Penn’s Col. Lockjaw, a despotic military figure, is rendered as a satirical study of control-freak authority sprinkled with human complexity. Curiosity alone may draw viewers from the right—and, in ways they may or may not acknowledge, the film could resonate with them. In an era where even figures like Ted Cruz take unexpected stands, the takeaway is clear: not everything is set in stone.
I’m thrilled to see a major film boldly confronting America’s rising autocracy and offering a sharp critique of Christian nationalism. But I’m equally excited to see a movie that reminds us of the power of cinema itself. There was a similar sensation with Sinners, a vampire thriller exploring America’s racial history, but even that film lacked what One Battle After Another achieves: immersing audiences in the present-day cataclysm of our own country, where the very idea of freedom feels precarious. The cultural energy around a movie like this could be a meaningful first step toward reflection—and perhaps repair.
FAQs: ‘One Battle After Another’ – Paul Thomas Anderson’s Cultural Phenomenon
1. What is One Battle After Another about?
One Battle After Another is a political screwball thriller that explores a near-future America teetering on the edge of autocracy. The film follows an underground band of revolutionary guerrillas, highlighting their human flaws, while satirizing authoritarian figures like Col. Lockjaw, portrayed by Sean Penn.
2. Why is the movie resonating so strongly with audiences?
The film connects with contemporary anxieties about rising autocracy, freedom, and civic responsibility. Its tense, immersive narrative mirrors the political climate, making audiences reflect on the current state of the United States and the future of democracy.
3. Who stars in the film?
The film features Leonardo DiCaprio in one of his most compelling and relatable performances in years, alongside Sean Penn as the authoritarian Col. Lockjaw.
4. How has the movie been received critically?
One Battle After Another has received ecstatic reviews and intense awards buzz. Critics praise its unpredictability, cultural relevance, and the way it sparks conversation across the political spectrum.
5. What makes this film culturally significant?
Few movies today achieve mass cultural resonance. This film has the rare ability to electrify audiences and provoke dialogue beyond insular critical circles, much like Wall Street post-1987 stock-market crash or All the President’s Men post-Watergate.
6. Is the movie appealing to all political audiences?
Interestingly, the film may attract viewers from across the political spectrum. While traditionally red-state audiences avoid politically charged films, the nuanced portrayal of revolutionaries and satirical take on authoritarianism makes it compelling even to the right.
7. How long is the movie?
One Battle After Another runs for approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes, offering an immersive experience that encourages reflection on societal and political issues.
8. What themes does the film explore?
The movie delves into autocracy, Christian nationalism, civic responsibility, apathy, and resistance, while blending thriller, satire, and drama to engage viewers emotionally and intellectually.
9. How does it compare to other culturally impactful films?
The film is considered a rare example of cinema that can dominate cultural discourse. Unlike other critically acclaimed films that spark discussion only within niche circles, One Battle After Another connects with the broader zeitgeist, making it a phenomenon reminiscent of past iconic films.
10. Why is this movie important right now?
The film taps into the present political and social climate, providing a mirror for audiences to confront contemporary fears, uncertainties, and ethical dilemmas. Its relevance and resonance could help spark public reflection and conversation about the future of freedom and democracy.
11. Who directed One Battle After Another?
The film is directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, known for his bold storytelling and mastery in blending drama, satire, and social commentary.
12. How does the film portray revolutionary groups?
The guerrilla revolutionaries are depicted in shades of gray, showing both their idealism and their naivety, avoiding the typical glorification of heroes and offering a more realistic and complex view of rebellion.
13. What makes Sean Penn’s character unique?
Sean Penn’s Col. Lockjaw is a despotic military figure portrayed with a mix of satire and humanity, highlighting the absurdity of authoritarian control while still showing glimpses of human complexity.
14. How does the film address political polarization?
The movie bridges political divides by presenting a nuanced critique of power and authoritarianism that resonates with audiences across the spectrum, prompting reflection and conversation beyond partisan lines.
15. Are there any real-world references in the film?
Yes. The movie reflects current political concerns in the U.S., including fears of rising autocracy, threats to elections, and societal apathy, making it feel strikingly relevant to contemporary events.
16. How has the audience responded so far?
The film has received strong box-office numbers, indicating that viewers are responding to critical acclaim. Social media buzz and discussions suggest that the movie is capturing widespread attention and resonating emotionally with viewers.
17. Is the film suitable for mainstream audiences?
While it’s a politically charged thriller, the film’s engaging storytelling, suspense, and stellar performances make it accessible to mainstream audiences as well as cinephiles.
18. What awards buzz is the film generating?
Critics have praised the movie highly, calling it a contender for major awards. Its combination of narrative impact, social relevance, and powerful performances has made it a favorite in early awards-season discussions.
19. How does this film compare to other politically charged movies?
Unlike most contemporary films that spark discussion in limited circles, One Battle After Another has the potential to dominate cultural conversations and resonate with a wide audience, much like Wall Street or All the President’s Men did in their eras.
20. Why is this film considered a “zeitgeist” movie?
The movie captures the mood, anxieties, and tensions of today’s society, reflecting fears about freedom, governance, and civic responsibility. Its timing and themes align perfectly with contemporary political and social discourse.
21. Does the film provide any catharsis for viewers?
Yes. By immersing viewers in its tense narrative, the movie offers a breath-taking catharsis, allowing audiences to confront fear, anger, apathy, and hope in a reflective, cinematic way.
22. Will the film spark debate?
Absolutely. One Battle After Another is designed to provoke conversation, debates, and reflection, leaving viewers eager to discuss its themes, characters, and social implications.
23. What makes Leonardo DiCaprio’s performance stand out?
DiCaprio delivers one of his most inspired and relatable performances, anchoring the film emotionally while navigating complex political and personal conflicts within the story.
24. Can the film appeal to international audiences?
While deeply rooted in U.S. political context, the universal themes of power, freedom, and societal responsibility make the movie relatable and engaging for global audiences as well.
25. Why is this film important for modern cinema?
It demonstrates that movies can still matter in shaping cultural discourse, offering a blend of entertainment, social critique, and political reflection rarely seen in contemporary cinema.
