The film world is in a frenzy over Paul Thomas Anderson’s newest release, One Battle After Another.
Critics are calling it a masterpiece, audiences are raving, and Oscar chatter is spreading like wildfire.
Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, the action-thriller is loosely inspired by Thomas Pynchon’s 1990 novel Vineland, and early reactions suggest it could define a generation of cinema.
Critics Hail a Masterful Achievement
Nick Howells of The Standard didn’t hold back, awarding the film five stars and describing it as “the coolest, most consummately masterful movie you’re likely to see all year.”
He added that the film “oozes Oscars glory from every frame,” highlighting Anderson’s skill at crafting a cinematic spectacle that captivates from start to finish.
Anderson, already celebrated for Boogie Nights, There Will Be Blood, and Phantom Thread, has proven once again that he can balance audacious storytelling with meticulous craftsmanship.
This time, critics are noting a blend of action, black comedy, and political satire that feels both daring and deeply timely.
Betting Odds Soar for Oscar Glory
It’s not just critics who are impressed. Bookmakers have taken notice, too.
Ladbrokes recently slashed the odds for the film winning the 2026 Academy Award for Best Picture from 12/1 to even money, signaling serious Oscar potential.
Leonardo DiCaprio Shines in a Revolutionary Role
DiCaprio stars as Bob Ferguson, a disheveled, paranoid revolutionary living off-grid with his daughter Willa, played by Teyana Taylor.
The plot follows Bob reconnecting with allies on a mission to track down his daughter, guided by Benicio Del Toro’s character, a wise mentor navigating a life “without fear.”
Sean Penn plays the villainous Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw, while Regina Hall stars as revolutionary Deandra.
Hollywood Legends Applaud
Even industry heavyweights are impressed. Steven Spielberg called it “an insane movie,” noting that the first hour alone packs more action than many directors achieve across multiple films.
He praised the film’s blend of bizarre yet relevant themes, suggesting it speaks directly to contemporary societal concerns.
Reviews Pour In Across the Board
The Telegraph’s Robbie Collin described it as “electrifyingly improbable,” likening it to a Dr. Strangelove-style satire.
He highlighted Anderson’s confidence in the audience, noting the tension-filled climax on a desert road that leaves viewers “shaky and elated.”
BBC critic Caryn James emphasized the film’s ambitious yet seamless execution, calling Anderson “the brilliant mind” and DiCaprio “the emotional heart” of the story.
Similarly, Time Out praised DiCaprio’s performance and Anderson’s consistency, while Radio Times celebrated the film’s focus on human connection in a turbulent world.
The Standard lauded Anderson’s directorial virtuosity, citing a desert-road car chase accompanied by Jonny Greenwood’s staccato snare score as “simply genius.”
The Cinematic Reel described it as “the defining film of a generation,” blending urgent storytelling with emotional resonance.
Visuals and Style Draw Acclaim
Variety highlighted the collaboration between Anderson and cinematographer Michael Bauman, noting a mesmerizing visual style infused with ’70s grunge.
The film’s twists and turns keep audiences on the edge of their seats, capturing a sense of childlike wonder at every unexpected moment.
A Revolutionary Tale for Contemporary Audiences
The Daily Beast called it “a gonzo Antifa rallying cry,” emphasizing its themes of family, revolution, and resistance against tyranny.
While the film is praised for its revolutionary fervor and dark humor, some critics note that it stops just short of absolute emotional impact, leaving viewers both exhilarated and contemplative.
A Film Poised to Make History
With universal praise from critics, star-studded endorsements, and growing Oscar buzz, One Battle After Another is more than just another addition to Paul Thomas Anderson’s filmography—it’s a cinematic event.
Bold, audacious, and meticulously crafted, it’s the kind of film that sparks conversation and leaves audiences eager to experience it again and again.