Paul Thomas Anderson’s new film, One Battle After Another, is making waves at the box office. It has received an enthusiastic response from audiences, marking a high point in Anderson’s storytelling career.
The film dives deep into America’s struggles for change and the costs associated with it. Based on Thomas Pynchon’s novel Vineland, it follows Bob (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Perfidia (Teyana Taylor), two ex-revolutionaries, as they grapple with their past when their daughter, Willa (Chase Infiniti), is threatened by an old enemy, Col. Steven Lockjaw (Sean Penn), a notorious white supremacist.
A standout moment in the film occurs early on, where a group called French 75 helps freedom-seekers from a detention center. This scene resonates with ongoing societal debates about immigration policy. Today, many people are critical of governmental actions against immigrants, making the film’s themes feel timely and relevant.
One Battle After Another doesn’t glorify political violence; instead, it shows it as a fleeting solution with heavy consequences. In a significant moment, Perfidia accidentally kills an elderly Black man during a bank robbery—a scene that shatters her resolve and emphasizes the film’s message about the collateral damage suffered by those fighting for change.
One line from the film stands out: “You know what freedom is? No fear.” Sensei Sergio (Benicio Del Toro) shares this thought with Bob, sparking a discussion about fear and revolution. This idea strikes at the heart of what many feel: the fear of losing what little we have can stifle our drive for change.
Anderson’s own background influences his work. He dropped out of film school to learn by doing, which shaped his unique approach to storytelling. This mirrors a larger trend among many influential directors of his generation—like Quentin Tarantino and Richard Linklater—who emerged from a combination of rebellion and creativity.
The film showcases a reflection on the past through Bob’s character. A mid-film moment reveals his internal struggle: “I don’t get mad. I don’t get mad about anything anymore.” This resignation reflects a broader sentiment in today’s society, where many feel overwhelmed and powerless amid endless challenges.
One of the film’s crucial points is how it portrays characters, particularly Black women, at the forefront of revolution. This choice hints at a deeper understanding of historical struggles and acknowledges the pivotal roles that these voices have often played in enacting real change.
With a backdrop of rising political tensions in America, One Battle After Another also examines the role of filmmakers in depicting issues authentically. Unlike many properties that rely on ambiguous villains or feel-good endings, Anderson identifies real societal issues—specifically, the role and influence of wealthy white supremacists in power.
Anderson avoids the common pitfalls of white savior narratives, instead focusing on the flawed actions of all characters, including Bob. Through these imperfections, the film emphasizes that true revolutionary change requires fresh ideas and that every generation will make its own mistakes along the way.
In a world where many feel stuck, Anderson’s film invites viewers to reflect on the nature of revolution and the courage needed for genuine change. It suggests that while the battle may feel daunting, the fight for a better world belongs to those willing to confront their fears and learn from past mistakes.
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One Battle After Another,Paul Thomas Anderson
