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Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ Brings Big-Scale Action to a Pynchon-Inspired Drama

Backed by a reported $130–175 million budget with IMAX plus select VistaVision screenings, the wide release is drawing strong notices alongside the director’s best opening to date.

Overview

  • The film is a loose interpretation of Thomas Pynchon’s Vineland, translating its paranoia and generational themes into a contemporary action framework.
  • Leonardo DiCaprio leads a cast that includes Teyana Taylor, Sean Penn, Chase Infiniti, Benicio Del Toro and Regina Hall.
  • Critics highlight Anderson’s rare turn toward large-scale action, citing a gripping opening montage and a visceral, ground-level car chase.
  • Early box office reports note a $22.4 million domestic debut and about $48.5 million worldwide in the first weekend, positioning the film for a long run.
  • The movie runs roughly 2 hours 42–50 minutes, carries an R rating, and earns praise for performances and craft alongside notes about pacing and tonal shifts.