Leonardo DiCaprio calls ‘One Battle After Another’ a timely satire

Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio describes his upcoming action thriller "One Battle After Another" as a sharp commentary on today's polarised world.

"It's tricky to sum up," the "Titanic" actor told reporters. "At its core, the film explores humanity and the extremes we see on both sides. It isn't pushing any political agenda—it's satire through and through, which feels essential right now."

The story centres on Bob Ferguson, portrayed by DiCaprio, and his wife Perfidia Beverly Hills, played by singer Teyana Taylor. The couple, united yet strained, embark on high-risk humanitarian missions across contemporary America. After Perfidia vanishes soon after giving birth, Bob assumes a new identity and raises their child off the grid. Sixteen years later, an old adversary returns, forcing Bob to fight for his kidnapped daughter.

Written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson—known for acclaimed works such as "Licorice Pizza", "There Will Be Blood", and "Boogie Nights"—the film highlights Anderson's trademark flexibility. "He listens and adapts," DiCaprio said. "He might not take every suggestion, but the right idea can shift the whole direction of the film."

Distributed by Warner Bros, "One Battle After Another" opens in theatres on September 26 and has already earned a 97 percent rating on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, drawing strong praise from critics.