One Battle After Another is a commercial movie directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. Having previously seen his There Will Be Blood, which delves deeply into religion and human nature, this commercial movie clearly differs in style from his earlier work—it feels more direct and accessible. The characterization, however, leans toward caricature, making it less authentic. Still, Sean Penn's performance remains outstanding, masterfully portraying the complex psyche of an extreme far-right figure.
The movie primarily explores the intense confrontation between America's far-left and far-right factions. Both sides hold clear-cut views: the far-left advocates revolution, ostensibly for the disadvantaged, yet their true motivation lies in self-interest; the far-right champions tradition, seemingly to uphold social order, but fundamentally rooted in class and racial discrimination. These factions engage in a fight to the death, yet occasionally discover they share the same destination, developing a strange mutual respect. Ordinary people caught between these factions are the most innocent victims. They simply want to live normal lives, untouched by political symbolism, but unable to confront the threat, they resort to hiding and evading. The phrase “Be water,” repeatedly emphasized by Benicio del Toro's character Sensei Sergio, embodies the attitude of most people. Though individuals may lack strength, united they form a resilient force. Rather than clashing head-on with opponents, they flow with the situation, using intelligence to prevail.
The cinematography and score are both excellent. The final, undulating highway chase sequence, shot to resemble a vehicle navigating waves, is particularly distinctive and looks impressive in an IMAX theater.