We’ve been eagerly awaiting new Paul Thomas Anderson film One Battle After Another for some time now, especially with the increasingly positive reactions coming from offshore as the film premieres elsewhere.
Our own premiere screening in New Zealand did not disappoint, and our Flicks Members and other guests felt the same way—about the film itself, and also pre-movie refreshments provided by Sal’s Pizza Newmarket and Asahi Group NZ. We thank these partners and also Warner Bros NZ for making this special night possible.
One Battle After Another is written, directed and produced by Paul Thomas Anderson and stars Academy Award and BAFTA winners Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn and Benicio Del Toro, and Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor and Chase Infiniti.
Washed-up revolutionary Bob (DiCaprio) exists in a state of stoned paranoia, surviving off-grid with his spirited, self-reliant daughter, Willa (Infiniti). When his evil nemesis (Penn) resurfaces after 16 years and she goes missing, the former radical scrambles to find her, father and daughter both battling the consequences of his past.
Flicks’ Luke Buckmaster described the film as “an exhilaratingly well-made, teeth-gnashing action thriller that unfolds on the ground, close to the gutter”—but don’t just take our word for it, read on for reactions from some of our guests at the One Battle After Another premiere.
“This is currently my favourite release of 2025 so far, hands down. I didn’t realise I was gonna have so many laughs with this, the film had me giggling, gasping, and foot-tapping like crazy. As for the pre-event, it was lovely, smooth entrance – snapped a few pics of the carpet, grabbed some pizza, stopped by the bar and made our way to find seats – seamless evening – loved it!” – Jaime
“Absolutely loved the film – my favorite of the year so far! My partner and I desperately needed to use the bathroom midway through and it was so hard to leave because we were so locked in! From the beginning you’re taken on a glorious ride. The pace is on point, the action, comedy, sharp writing – I could go on and on about it. The cast is incredible. As we know, PTA knows how to take a real talent and make them a superstar. Teyana Taylor is the standout performance here. I’m really excited for her acting career to blossom from here.” – Jaxon
“My Wife and I had an excellent time. Really enjoyed the pizza, wine and snacks provided. Even had a photo and dress up at telephone booth on display. We both enjoyed the film and gave us plenty to talk about on the ride home – it did a great of job merging an intense thriller with a stoner flick, kind of like The Big Lebowski, but edgier and more politically minded.” – Scott
“Loved the evening, thanks very much for having us, nice to get a free slice of pizza and a beer before the movie. The movie was great – so well paced and acted, and an interesting and topical story.” – Simon
“Thank you so much for the opportunity. We enjoyed the film and the food! The whole setup looked great too :) Loved the movie. The cast delivered outstanding performances, and the comedic timing was well-executed. Loud, funny, and sad. Easily my movie of the year! :)” – Angela
“What a rollicking chaotic explosion of a Film! non-stop action and chaos from the get go – a sprawling epic action drama-surreal, funny, dark and edgy. There’s something for everybody in this one. Probably about 40 minutes too long – but I was the only one in my group of four who thought that! We all had our mouths open either in shock or fits of laughter.” – Marshall
“Another excellent film with a star-studded cast. Didn’t know too much about the film going into the premiere but enjoyed it immensely and the evening with Sals and Asahi made it even better.” – Jason
“Thanks for the treat! The pizza and particularly the lemon drink were amazing. The film was thrilling and funny. With the action elements, it’s a bit different from PTA’s previous work. He’s got the chops to be a great action-thriller director. The script was just crazy funny. The performances were amazing – with Sean Penn being the standout for me.” – Luigi
“One Battle After Another was a thoroughly enjoyable watch, blending drama with well-timed comedic moments and standout performances. Sean Penn delivered a captivating and unconventional role that immediately drew you in, adding a unique twist and maintaining high energy throughout the film. Leonardo DiCaprio was another highlight, portraying a paranoid father figure with his usual brilliance – his performance added depth and tension to the story. The film felt timely and relevant, ticking all the right boxes for an engaging cinematic experience. Big thanks for the double pass—well worth it!” – Amelia
“Another great event from Flicks — had an awesome night with food and drinks! One Battle After Another is a fantastically chaotic movie that I can’t wait to see again. PTA has delivered another hit — completely different from his previous work. Leo is incredible; I laughed so hard, and the dialogue is amazing. Thanks, Flicks, for another great event in Auckland. Can’t wait for more to come!” – Murilo
Want to be at our next premiere event?
A Flicks membership is free and lets you create a watchlist of movies and shows, be notified when they arrive to cinemas or streaming, and get rewards—like tickets to these premieres. Join here
