Ep. 326: One Battle After Another

Steffan and Gavia review One Battle After Another, which is already being hailed as the best film of 2025. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, this comedic thriller displays startlingly bold politics for a Hollywood studio release, telling a gripping story about leftist revolutionaries, racism, and the senseless brutality of American border control. Leonardo DiCaprio and Chase Infiniti star as the central father/daughter duo, opposite Sean Penn as the villain.

Much to discuss here, from the excellent ensemble cast (including Teyana Taylor and Benicio del Toro) to whether this movie actually qualifies as one of PTA’s best - a very competitive field. Also, is One Battle After Another a politically radical film, or is it just a film with politically radical characters?

"Leonardo DiCaprio Unfiltered," Paul Thomas Anderson, Esquire

“Chase Infiniti is carrying One Battle After Another on her shoulders,” Sija Rankin, The Hollywood Reporter

“Eureka!: Paul Thomas Anderson and Leonardo DiCaprio break down One Battle After Another,” Brian Formo, Letterboxd

"He’s made the most incendiary movie of the year. But Paul Thomas Anderson remains an optimist," Glenn Whipp, L.A. Times

Previously: Phantom Thread, The Brutalist