Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘One Battle After Another’ Faces Criticism Amid Rising Political Tension

Leonardo DiCaprio’s Latest Film Under Fire

Leonardo DiCaprio’s latest release, One Battle After Another, is stirring significant controversy among critics. The film, which premiered recently, has been described by author Bret Easton Ellis, known for his work on American Psycho, as poorly timed in light of escalating left-wing violence and its focus on a violent political uprising.

Ellis expressed his disapproval on his podcast, stating, “It’s kind of shocking to see these kind of accolades for — I’m sorry, it’s not a very good movie — because of its political ideology, and it’s so obvious that’s what they’re responding to.” He questioned why the film is hailed as a masterpiece, attributing its praise to its alignment with leftist perspectives.

Critics Voicing Strong Opinions

Ellis further remarked that the film may soon be considered an outdated relic of a different political era. He pointed out, “There’s a liberal mustiness to this movie that already feels very dated by October 2025. Very dated.” This strong critique resonates with a section of viewers who see the film’s political leanings overshadowing its artistic value.

In contrast, another critic suggested the film was an important cinematic statement. Ellis dismissed this view with a scathing remark that the filmmakers failed to comprehend the current political climate in America. He stated, “No, it is not. It has really not read the room. It has not read the room at all about what’s going on in America.”

Plot Synopsis and Themes

One Battle After Another draws inspiration from Thomas Pynchon’s novel Vineland, set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Reagan era. The storyline unfolds around a revolutionary group called The French 75, which mirrors the activities of the Weather Underground. This fictional collective aims to challenge what they perceive as authoritarian governance.

The French 75’s actions include breaking illegal immigrants out of detention centers and resorting to extreme measures such as bombing courthouses associated with politicians advocating for abortion restrictions. This depiction of political violence raises questions about the moral implications of the characters’ actions and the message the film intends to convey.

Star-Studded Cast and Character Dynamics

Alongside DiCaprio, Hollywood veteran Sean Penn appears in the film, portraying Army Colonel Steven Lockjaw. Lockjaw’s character explores the sinister world of a secretive, elite White supremacist group known as the Christmas Adventurers. This organization possesses substantial political clout and dedicates its efforts to hunting down members of The French 75, complicating the moral ambiguity woven throughout the narrative.

The intersection of these characters and their ideologies contributes to the film’s contentious reception. Fox News columnist David Marcus criticized the film as an “ill-timed apologia for left-wing violence.” He likened the viewing experience to watching a World War II film where viewers are meant to root for Nazi characters.

Mixed Reception and Box Office Success

National Review also joined critics in condemning One Battle After Another, cautioning that the film romanticizes political violence. They noted the unsettling timing of the film’s release, coinciding with the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. The outlet remarked, “The film undeniably romanticizes political assassination … Anderson intentionally provokes the bloodlust of his woke confreres by celebrating the insipid, heretical, and violent activities of the liberal past and present.”

Despite the outcry from some critics regarding its themes of political unrest and violence, the film has emerged as a surprising success at the box office. Since its release in September, One Battle After Another has grossed over $100 million globally, securing its position as the highest-rated film of 2025 on Metacritic.

Public and Critical Discourse

The polarizing nature of One Battle After Another highlights the ongoing cultural and political discussions prevalent in today’s society. As debates surrounding freedom of expression and the responsibility of art intersect with the realities of political division, this film serves as a case study for the complexities experienced in modern cinema.

As the discourse surrounding the film continues, it remains to be seen how audiences will ultimately perceive One Battle After Another. Will the public view it as a thought-provoking commentary or a misguided attempt at addressing America’s political climate? Only time will tell.