Get ready for action! Warner Bros. Pictures has just dropped the first teaser for “One Battle After Another,” the highly anticipated film from the brilliant writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson. Starring the iconic Leonardo DiCaprio alongside Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Sean Penn, this film marks Anderson's return since the critically acclaimed “Licorice Pizza” in 2021. Fans won’t have to wait long as the film is set to hit theaters on September 26.

The intriguing teaser gives a sneak peek of exhilarating moments, showcasing characters firing guns in an expansive field. One particularly striking scene features a pregnant Teyana Taylor expertly handling a rifle while DiCaprio casually sips a drink, embodying a cool, laid-back observer. As the teaser continues, we see the arrival of a baby, followed by a haunting narrator asking, “What are you gonna do about this baby?” The scene then jumps to the now-grown child, taking aim with a rifle, mimicking her mother's earlier actions—a powerful visual of the cycle of life and conflict.

“Just when you think you got a handle on things,” a voice echoes ominously, and we see an older DiCaprio, sporting a goatee, looking down the scope of a gun. Tension rises as Sean Penn’s character drags a distressed young woman through an alley, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.

Before the teaser was revealed, very little information was available regarding the film’s plot, other than it being set in contemporary times and involving an ensemble cast. However, early speculation suggested that “One Battle After Another” could become Anderson’s most expensive film to date, with initial reports estimating costs around $100 million and others placing it as high as $140 million. This comes on the heels of Anderson’s previous film, “Licorice Pizza,” which, despite its critical acclaim, suffered significant financial losses, failing to recoup its $40 million budget.

In addition to the familiar faces of DiCaprio and Hall, the cast also reunites with breakout star Alana Haim. Joining the ensemble are Benicio del Toro, Wood Harris, Shayna McHayle, and Chase Infiniti, promising a star-studded experience for audiences.

Filming commenced under the working title “BC Project” in January 2024, primarily shooting in California, a common backdrop for many of Anderson’s films. The production utilized 35 mm film and VistaVision cameras, adding a classic aesthetic to the visual storytelling. Notably, additional shots were filmed in El Paso, Texas, highlighting the film’s diverse settings.

This movie also marks the sixth collaboration between Anderson and composer Johnny Greenwood, known for enhancing the emotional depth of Anderson's films. Sadly, this film is the first since the passing of first assistant director Adam Somner, who died in November 2024, reminding us of the poignant moments that accompany the filmmaking journey.

With a teaser that promises explosive action and gripping storytelling, “One Battle After Another” is shaping up to be a must-watch. Keep your eyes peeled for the full trailer dropping next week!