A First Look at ‘One Battle After Another’

Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest film, "One Battle After Another," is generating buzz as an early Oscar frontrunner, especially after its thrilling industry screening at the Steven J. Ross Theater in Los Angeles. Though the latest trailer may miss the mark in showcasing its cinematic delights, insiders believe the film packs an unexpected punch.

Star-Studded Screening Captivates the Audience

The packed theater experience drew Hollywood heavyweights like Christopher Nolan and Rian Johnson, suggesting serious attention from cinephiles. The film, shot mainly in Anderson's beloved VistaVision format, promises viewers an extraordinary visual adventure, although many theaters will only offer 70mm and IMAX.

What’s the Buzz About?

Based loosely on Thomas Pynchon's novel "Vineland," the film has been compared to Anderson's previous work, "Inherent Vice," which struggled commercially. However, with a star-studded cast and a budget of $115 million, there's hope for significant box office success.

Major Oscar Potential

Warner Bros. is already making aggressive Oscar campaigns for upcoming features like "Sinners" while eyeing multiple nominations for "One Battle After Another." Leonardo DiCaprio is widely predicted to snag a Best Actor nod for his role as Bob Ferguson, a chaotic character trying to navigate his life as a single father amid revolutionary chaos.

A Flawed Hero

Describing his character as a 'sloppy hero,' DiCaprio paints Ferguson as a man haunted by past decisions and parental challenges: 'He’s completely ill-equipped. He winds up being a paranoid mess, but there’s something heroic in his relentless pursuit to protect his daughter.'

Incredible Craftsmanship

The film’s craftsmanship, featuring inventive cinematography and a daring score from Jonny Greenwood, enhances the storytelling, making it a visual and emotional treat. Anderson stated that humor is crucial, claiming that laughter provides a counterbalance to the film's more serious themes.

Behind the Scenes with the Cast

At a recent Q&A session, Anderson detailed his creative journey, having refined the script since 1999. Teyana Taylor, who plays Ferguson’s partner, described her character as a 'badass,' tackling both the challenges of activism and motherhood.

Anticipation is Sky-High

With early screenings leaving audiences thrilled, Taylor noted, 'Y’all pass the vibe check.' The film is set to release in theaters on September 26, leaving fans eager to see if it lives up to the Oscar hype.