Warner Bros. Pictures has officially released the highly anticipated teaser for “One Battle After Another,” the latest cinematic venture from acclaimed writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson. This film features an impressive ensemble cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Sean Penn. Marking Anderson's return to the big screen since his critically acclaimed work on “Licorice Pizza” in 2021, “One Battle After Another” is set to hit theaters on September 26.
The newly released short teaser provides a glimpse into the film’s action-packed scenes, featuring characters engaging in intense gunfire amidst a sprawling field. One striking moment showcases Teyana Taylor's character, who is pregnant, adeptly firing a rifle while Leonardo DiCaprio watches on, sipping a drink. The teaser transitions seamlessly to a scene depicting the arrival of the baby, accompanied by a narrator questioning, “What are you gonna do about this baby?” This narrative twist is further emphasized as the teaser cuts to the grown child, now capable of wielding a rifle just like her mother.
“Just when you think you got a handle on things,” a voice states, setting the tone for the film's complex themes. The teaser also features an older DiCaprio, sporting a goatee and looking down the scope of a gun, while Sean Penn's character drags a screaming young woman through an alleyway, hinting at the film's dramatic tension.
Prior to the teaser's release, details about the film's plot were scarce, with only a mention of its “contemporary setting” and ensemble cast. However, whispers in the industry suggest that “One Battle After Another” could be Paul Thomas Anderson's most expensive project to date. Early reports from Variety indicated that the film's budget could exceed $100 million, with estimates reaching as high as $140 million.
Interestingly, Anderson's previous film, “Licorice Pizza,” faced financial challenges, reportedly losing tens of millions after failing to recoup its $40 million budget, despite receiving positive critical acclaim. Adding to the excitement, breakout star Alana Haim from “Licorice Pizza” will reunite with Anderson for this new project.
The film began principal photography under the working title “BC Project” in January 2024, primarily taking place in California, a favored location for many of Anderson's films. Notably, “One Battle After Another” was shot on 35 mm film using VistaVision cameras, ensuring a high-quality visual experience. In addition to California, filming also occurred on location in El Paso, Texas.
This project marks the sixth feature collaboration between Paul Thomas Anderson and composer Johnny Greenwood, further enhancing the film's artistic depth. It also represents the fifth collaboration between Anderson and first assistant director Adam Somner, who sadly passed away in November 2024.
Fans eagerly await the release of “One Battle After Another,” which is scheduled to be launched on August 8 by Warner Bros. Pictures. Stay tuned for a full trailer set to drop next week, which will likely provide even more insight into this highly anticipated film.
Watch the teaser below:
