Paul Thomas Anderson Unleashes Epic 'One Battle After Another'

Los Angeles, Sep 26 (AP) Paul Thomas Anderson has crafted an action epic two decades in the making with "One Battle After Another," premiering in theaters this Friday.

Inspired by Thomas Pynchon's "Vineland," the movie's 2-hour and 50-minute runtime plunges audiences into politically charged narratives, exploring immigration, systemic corruption, and racism.

Star Teyana Taylor explains that Anderson, known fondly as PTA, isn’t one to create comfort for viewers. "He calls out a lot of what tries to hide beneath the surface. He shakes things up," Taylor remarks. Her character, Perfidia Beverly Hills, is part of French 75, a group inspired by the Weather Underground.

Opening scenes introduce French 75's bold acts of defiance—liberating undocumented detainees, leveling corrupt institutions, and exacting justice in their radical way.

The group is brought to life by a blend of musicians-turned-actors like Dijon Duenas, Alana Haim, Shayna McHayle, and iconic performers like Regina Hall and Wood Harris.

Leonardo DiCaprio, portraying Bob Ferguson—known as Ghetto Pat in French 75 circles—comments, "This movie reflects the revolutionaries of the late '60s, capturing both their ideals and their eventual unraveling." DiCaprio's character is deeply entrenched in the revolution's roots and his unwavering commitment to Perfidia.

Their mission's vitality is tested against Sean Penn's Colonel Steven Lockjaw, whose drive to dismantle French 75 feeds his own ambitions.

"Today, we live in a time of systemic breakdowns—a warning the film underscores without resolution," DiCaprio continues. "Paul's vision shows the dangers of extreme ideology on both sides, yet also captures the lack of true communication."

The narrative jumps 16 years, revealing Pat as a wary, stoner father with daughter Willa (Chase Infiniti), until Lockjaw forces their flight anew.

Infiniti recalls, "I questioned my ability to portray my role, but the support I received reassured me."

Shot entirely in VistaVision, Anderson's most expensive endeavor yet marries improvisation and scarce takes, demanding trust between director and cast.

Benicio del Toro, portraying karate instructor and sanctuary leader Sensei Sergio St. Carlos, emphasizes the hope of transcending political divides through compassion.

Reflecting on his role, DiCaprio calls the film his mode of free expression, spotlighting humanity’s varied issues. "I seek films that provoke thought over meaning," he states. "This movie reflects society’s divides and humanity."

Taylor notes, "The unchanged, two-decade-old script still reflects ongoing American cycles. It's time for critical conversations." (AP) RB RB

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