In 2006, Martin Scorsese’s fervent quest for an Oscar culminated in victory with "The Departed," a film not considered his pinnacle by critics yet celebrated nonetheless as it was finally his time. Fast forward nearly two decades, and Paul Thomas Anderson finds himself at a similar crossroads.

Anderson, the genius behind iconic works like "Boogie Nights" and "There Will Be Blood," boasts 11 Oscar nominations but has yet to clutch that golden statuette. His newest project, Warner Bros.’ gripping thriller "One Battle After Another," could position him for that long-sought win if strategized effectively.

Hollywood's history is filled with instances where voters finally decide it’s an artist's moment to shine—think of the Coen Brothers with "No Country for Old Men," or Del Toro's "The Shape of Water." Now, at 55, it's Anderson's turn to capitalize on this zeitgeist.

What ‘One Battle After Another’ Is About

Drawing inspiration from Thomas Pynchon’s "Vineland," this 162-minute narrative unfolds around ex-revolutionaries who unite to rescue a comrade’s daughter when an old nemesis resurfaces. The star-studded ensemble features Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Regina Hall, making a powerful case for awards attention.

DiCaprio, as Bob Ferguson, infuses the film with comic energy, potentially advocating for the film in the comedy/musical category at the Golden Globes. However, his recent drought—in terms of nominations since his acclaimed performance in "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood"—casts doubt on his chances amidst fierce competition.

Sean Penn’s Show-Stopping Performance