The cast is simply magnificent. As the hapless, stoned, bathrobe-sporting protagonist, DiCaprio enters (once again, damn him) the pantheon of Great Cinematic Characters for the Ages. The definition of an “anti-hero” is that you can’t help but root for him, despite all the glaring flaws. His comedic timing is impeccable. But, arguably, his foe, Lockjaw, as played by Penn, leaves an even bigger impression. Words cannot describe how riveting Penn is here: insecure, ferocious, self-centered; he strides with confidence and a stick up his a*s; he’s at war with himself, the one “battle” he tends to disregard; he’s a tight coil, ready to release all hell. This performance could have easily slid into absurdity; instead, Penn introduces us to one of the greatest movie villains of all time. His facial tics alone are worth the price of admission.
Chase Infiniti, in her debut role, astounds. Showcasing poignancy, fear, determination, grief, and much more, the young actress will be gracing screens for a long time to come. Teyana Taylor’s task must’ve seemed insurmountable: to create a lasting impression with minimal screen time – although her character disappears soon after the film begins, her presence is felt in every moment (especially during the powerful finale, when only her voice is heard). Regina Hall, in a few brushstrokes, forms the heart and soul of the film. And as for Benicio Del Toro – well, when has he ever disappointed?
Leonardo DiCaprio as Bob Ferguson in a tense night scene.
“What remains inarguable is that One Battle After Another represents the pinnacle of the man’s astounding career.”
Anderson directs with the dexterity, confidence, and passion of a seasoned artist. Each line of dialogue resonates; pointing out highlights in a film that consists of only highlights is a fruitless, redundant endeavor. From that “boner” sequence between Perfidia and Lockjaw (emasculation vs. power), to the father-daughter scene involving a DNA test, it’s all pure perfection. The final chase sequence through roller-coaster desert roads is about as good as filmmaking gets, period.
Nothing’s black and white here. The personal and the political intertwine, until lines blur and dissipate. Anderson punches your gut while warming your heart, and he leaves enough room for you to draw your own conclusions. What remains inarguable is that One Battle After Another represents the pinnacle of the man’s astounding career. Forget about your own daily battles and delve into this one. It may just put things in perspective.
"…words cannot describe how riveting Penn is here…"
