In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the decades-spanning revolutionary narrative of Paul Thomas Anderson's "One Battle After Another," a film that has garnered significant Oscar buzz. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Teyana Taylor, and Sean Penn, this sprawling American epic explores the clash between militant countercultural revolutionaries and a repressive police state, all while addressing the generational family drama of anti-state activism. Laura and Stephen dissect the film's colorful characters, including the fiery revolutionary Perfidia and the morally ambiguous Colonel Lockjaw, while examining the film's commentary on political action and the cyclical nature of struggle. With a mix of humor and profound moments, they delve into the film's three acts, discussing everything from the chaotic opening scenes to the poignant resolution. Join them as they unpack the layers of "One Battle After Another," a film that resonates deeply with contemporary issues and challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of activism and personal legacy.

00:00 Introduction to "One Battle After Another"

01:30 Overview of the film's premise and themes

04:00 Discussion on the character of Perfidia

08:00 Insights on Colonel Lockjaw's role

12:00 Exploration of the film's narrative structure

16:00 The significance of generational trauma

20:00 Humor amidst chaos in the film

24:00 Analysis of the film's production techniques

28:00 Comparisons to contemporary activism

32:00 Final thoughts on the film's impact and Oscar potential

36:00 Conclusion and reflections on the Oscars

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Ep 299: Reviewing “One Battle After Another” and the Ongoing American Revolution [2026 Oscar Movies]

Midday Movies