‘One Battle After Another’ Dominates Box Office, Marks Second-Biggest Hit for Paul Thomas Anderson
Leonardo DiCaprio’s new movie has taken the top spot at the box office. One Battle After Another brought in $22.4 million from theaters in the U.S. and Canada during its first weekend.
Around the world, it earned $48.5 million. Analysts had predicted a domestic opening between $20 and $25 million, while some thought it could reach $30 million. Warner Bros., the studio behind the film, expected about $20 million, so the results matched their target.
The film is directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, known for films like There Will Be Blood and Licorice Pizza. This time, Anderson teamed with DiCaprio for a story about a former revolutionary who has to save his daughter from a past enemy.
The movie is inspired by the novel Vineland by Thomas Pynchon. The cast includes Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro, Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Chase Infiniti. The project had a large budget of $130 million.
Here's the official trailer for Paul Thomas Anderson's "One Battle After Another," in theaters September 26. Learn more about the film: https://t.co/qRTPic058K pic.twitter.com/Aplndoxxbe
— IndieWire (@IndieWire) March 27, 2025
The world premiere happened in Los Angeles on September 8. It was then released nationwide on September 26. Early reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. Rotten Tomatoes shows that 96% of critics liked it.
The site’s summary says, “An epic screwball adventure teeming with awe-inspiring action set pieces, One Battle After Another is Paul Thomas Anderson’s most entertaining film yet while also one of his most thematically rich.” Metacritic also lists the film with a 95 out of 100 score, calling it “universal acclaim.” CinemaScore surveys gave it an “A” grade from audiences.
The movie blends action, comedy, and thriller elements. Its story includes revolutionary groups, personal struggles, and a corrupt military official. Critics have praised not only its big action moments but also its sharp humor and layered themes.
With strong word of mouth and a successful opening, the film has already become the second biggest box office success in Anderson’s career.
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