One Battle After Another (2025)

Review

Rating: 9.5/10

Quick Hook (First Impression)

Having been eagerly anticipating this film, I was drawn in by the promise of Leonardo DiCaprio leading a genre-blending narrative. From the first scenes, I could tell the film would be a high-quality mix of comedy, drama, and action.

Story / Concept

The film follows Bob Ferguson, a father attempting to protect his daughter Willa while being drawn back into the dangerous elements of his past life. Despite a familiar premise, the story feels fresh, anchored by the strong relationships between characters and the tension created by Bob’s past colliding with his present.

Performances

Leonardo DiCaprio delivers a moving performance as Bob, portraying both vulnerability and determination. Benicio del Toro as Sergio St. Carlos brings calm, grounded energy, and Sean Penn as Steven J. Lockjaw is intensely unsettling, earning him a well-deserved Best Supporting Actor award.

Pacing / Flow

The pacing works for the most part, though the 2 hr 42 min runtime occasionally drags. Some moments of backstory could have been condensed or expanded, particularly Bob’s history with the French 75 and his connections to his daughter’s mother.

Themes / Meaning

The film explores themes of family, protection, and the inescapability of one’s past. The narrative examines how love and responsibility can pull a person into conflict, emphasizing emotional stakes over spectacle.

Final Thoughts

Overall, One Battle After Another succeeds through strong performances, engaging story, and genre blending that feels natural. Minor pacing issues do not diminish its impact, making it a deserving Best Picture winner.

Who is this for?
Fans of Leonardo DiCaprio, character-driven dramas, and genre-blending stories.

Who should skip it?
Viewers expecting fast-paced, nonstop action may find this slower and more character-focused.

One-Sentence Verdict:
A compelling mix of comedy, drama, and action, anchored by standout performances and an emotional core.

What Worked

• Excellent performances from DiCaprio, del Toro, and Penn
• Engaging story with emotional depth
• Natural integration of multiple genres

What Didn’t

• Pacing occasionally drags
• Some aspects of Bob’s backstory could be expanded

Optional Gut Check

Rewatchable? Yes

Would I recommend this casually to a friend? Yes