One Battle After Another: It’s the Greatness He Claims to Be (Critique)

Titled Revolutionary Genres Collide: One After Another Blends Thriller, Comedy, Drama, and Allegory

Attending a preview of One After Another last week left a profound impression. While trailers might suggest a typical revolutionary film — heavy on politics, serious, and didactic — the movie, particularly in its second half, defies these expectations. It quickly evolves into a unique genre blend: part thriller, part comedy, part family drama, all interwoven with a deep political allegory. The film masterfully balances seriousness with humor, creating a truly distinctive viewing experience. The narrative unfolds in two distinct parts. The first focuses on the French 75, a revolutionary group challenging the American government over immigration policies. Their mission involves raiding detention centers to liberate detainees, advocating for freedom. Perfidia Beverly Hills, portrayed by Teyana Taylor, leads the group with a captivating screen presence. She holds sway over Bob Ferguson, known as “Ghetto Pat,” an explosives expert played by Leonardo DiCaprio. DiCaprio, almost unrecognizable in the role, depicts Ghetto Pat as a man grappling with insecurity and paranoia, exacerbated by his alcohol and cannabis habits. The story takes unexpected turns, defying initial assumptions.

Conflicting Icons Collide: DiCaprio vs. Penn’s Dual Mastery in Anderson’s Mirror

DiCaprio delivers a transformative performance, exploring a new facet of his acting range. He fully embraces the character’s physical deterioration, appearing with oily hair, a messy mustache and beard, and a ragged bathrobe that unexpectedly adds humor. His portrayal of this broken man, a blend of courage and vulnerability, is captivating. Intimate scenes between him and his daughter, particularly during arguments or visits from friends, resonate with universal everyday experiences. Paul Thomas Anderson’s film serves as a distorted mirror, reflecting society’s fascinating and unsettling contradictions in behavior and rhetoric. Sean Penn masterfully embodies Colonel Steve Lockjaw, a military figure dedicated to rules and respect, yet secretly harboring ambitions to join the white supremacist elite. Beneath an icy exterior, Penn injects Lockjaw with surprising nuances, conveyed through subtle twitches and forced displays of toughness. Lockjaw is driven to achieve his goals at any cost. Penn’s screen presence creates palpable tension, hinting at impending shifts. He fully commits to the role, undergoing a physical transformation that includes prominent muscles and veins, coupled with a commanding stride and authoritative jawline. His powerful performance nearly eclipses even DiCaprio’s impressive work; an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor would be unsurprising.

Complicated Love Triangle and Charismatic Performances in Anderson’s Mirror of Human Nature

Despite their apparent opposition, the characters of Bob Ferguson and Colonel Lockjaw complement each other. This dynamic is further complicated by an unexpected love triangle: Bob and Perfidia on one side, with Steve Lockjaw torn between his public beliefs and his private desires for a Black woman, whose allure he publicly rejects but privately cannot resist. Anderson’s genius lies in transcending simplistic good-versus-evil narratives, instead delving into the complexities of human nature, exploring contradictions and hidden desires. This engrossing social commentary maintains its grip on viewers for nearly two and a half hours. Beyond the standout performances from Penn and DiCaprio, Benicio Del Toro captivates as a charismatic karate sensei who operates as a nighttime vigilante, sheltering undocumented migrants in his dojo. Chase Infiniti also proves to be a scene-stealer, exhibiting a magnetic presence and extraordinary acting prowess. Despite having made an impression in Presumed Innocent, her role in One After Another marks a significant leap, as she shares the screen with seasoned actors like DiCaprio, Penn, and Del Toro. Her performance strongly suggests she is an emerging talent for Hollywood to watch closely.

Masterful Storytelling in Anderson’s Desert Chases: A Timely and Tense Masterpiece

Paul Thomas Anderson’s masterful direction elevates each high-stakes sequence. He skillfully blends genres and balances grand spectacle with his distinctive artistic vision. Even viewers not typically drawn to his work may find this film engaging, as it stands as perhaps his most mainstream and well-paced offering to date. As the narrative transitions from political themes to personal revenge, Anderson intensifies the experience, maintaining relentless tension. The precise editing and evocative soundtrack amplify the drama in every scene, keeping the audience on edge through constant suspense and a pervasive sense of danger. The final car chase through the desert, with its thrilling twists, exemplifies Anderson’s powerful, organic, and unforgettable storytelling. One After Another is a timely and exceptionally framed film. Rating: 10/10