The Best Film of 2025? 'One Battle After Another' | Film Review

The Best Film of 2025? 'One Battle After Another' | Film Review

‘One Battle After Another’ grabs onto you at the very beginning and refuses to let go until the final second. Paul Thomas Anderson is able to deliver a truly gruelling, vengeful, witty, poignant and remarkable piece of cinema whilst commentating on the social and political landscape of our world.

‘One Battle After Another’ quite literally does what it says on the tin. It moves the audience through the narrative passing by continuous war and conflict, there was never a dull moment and I found myself edging further and further to the edge of my seat.

Cinematically and visually ‘One Battle After Another’ is breathtaking, the landscapes, the colours and the jarring cinematography all added to the films atmosphere and execution. I was utterly blown away by every element. 

At this film’s core is a battle between humanity and politics, which comes first? Do we follow our instincts or do we follow our hearts? I adored how Paul Thomas Anderson was able to inject such humanity, charm and wit into such a chaotic and destructive story.

Leonardo DiCaprio is a master of explosive characters, he effortlessly brings comedy and realism to his roles and Bob has easily become one of his greatest to date. Alongside a mesmerising cast, particularly Sean Penn who delivers a mesmerisingly torturous performance. His character is one of the most compelling and vile, he brought him to life both physically and mentally. 

2 hours and 50 minutes of complete chaos, complete passion, complete disdain and I adored every second. This film comments on our world, comments on reality whilst managing to bring elements of effortless comedy to an ongoing battle of control and power.

Not a moment past that felt unnecessary, not a piece of dialogue was spoken that felt pointless. Overall, ‘One Battle After Another’ is a film which has lingered on my mind and I know it will for a long time. Good cinema stays with you, good filmmaking is unforgettable.

★★★★★

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