Particle.news

Download on the App Store

One Battle After Another’ Earns Strong Notices as Paul Thomas Anderson Leans Into Action

Reviewers spotlight Anderson’s propulsive action filmmaking alongside a sharp political bite.

Overview

  • Fresh Oct. 2 reviews commend the in‑theater release for muscular set pieces and confident pacing, framing it as one of Anderson’s most action‑forward films.
  • Leonardo DiCaprio leads a cast that critics say delivers standout work, with praise for Teyana Taylor, Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro, Regina Hall and newcomer Chase Infiniti.
  • Loosely drawn from Thomas Pynchon’s Vineland, the story follows a revolutionary network and a sanctuary city backdrop to explore contemporary political tensions.
  • Critics highlight the film’s blend of dark humor and harrowing scenarios as it tackles immigration enforcement, racialized power and rising extremism.
  • The movie is rated R and is playing exclusively in theaters, with reviewers noting its scale, momentum and awards‑minded ambition.