TravelingbeebryantRN & Flicks_withNick

One Battle Another follows veteran investigator Bob (DiCaprio) as he finds himself relentlessly pursued by LockJaw (Penn), a dangerous and unpredictable threat. As he tries to stay one step ahead, the situation spirals into a violent conspiracy, testing loyalties and blurring the line between survival and duty.

Paul Thomas Anderson shows just how sharp and confident he still is as a filmmaker. The movie balances tension, dark humor, and character drama without ever feeling forced. It’s also visually stunning – the late scene following the winding highway is mesmerizing, almost like the audience is being pulled along for the ride. And the overhead police chase shots? Thrilling, yet elegant in that signature PTA style.

The performances are exceptional across the board. DiCaprio, Penn, and Chase Infiniti are all at the top of their game, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see all three in awards conversations. Even at nearly three hours, the story never drags. The pacing constantly shifts and builds, keeping the characters driving the story forward.

Just when the cast feels stacked to capacity, Benicio Del Toro appears and steals the show. His scene guiding everyone away from LockJaw is one of the most gripping moments in the film — short, brutal, and unforgettable.

Despite the intensity, the film knows when to lean into humor. The jokes land naturally, woven seamlessly into the characters’ world. The funniest moment comes when DiCaprio frantically tries to charge his phone and can’t remember the code phrase — “What time is it?” — a perfectly chaotic beat in the middle of the storm.

By the end, it’s clear this isn’t just another strong PTA entry – it’s a serious awards contender. As of now, it’s my favorite film of 2025 and the strongest Best Picture candidate I’ve seen so far, now surpassing Sinners. PTA may have just delivered his best work since There Will Be Blood. 

Flicks_withNick Rating: 4.7 / 5

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