"One Battle After Another" Set for HBO Max Release

“One Battle After Another,” directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, is set to debut exclusively on HBO Max on December 19, 2025. The film, which premiered in theaters on September 26, has garnered significant critical acclaim and commercial success, earning over $204 million globally, making it Anderson's highest-grossing film to date. The narrative follows Bob Ferguson (DiCaprio), a washed-up revolutionary who must confront his past to rescue his kidnapped daughter, Willa (Chase Infiniti), from a vengeful nemesis, Steven Lockjaw (Sean Penn).

CNET

The film has been recognized as a frontrunner in the current awards season, leading to nine nominations at the Golden Globes, including Best Picture. It has also received accolades from various critics' groups, including the New York and Los Angeles critics, and won Best Feature at the Gotham Awards. Critics have praised the film for its complex storytelling and performances, with Variety's chief film critic Owen Gleiberman describing it as a “mesmerizing vision of a police-state America” and calling it Anderson's best work since “Boogie Nights.”

Variety Magazine

In addition to its HBO Max release, “One Battle After Another” will also air on HBO's linear channel starting December 20, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET. An American Sign Language (ASL) version of the film will be available on HBO Max, interpreted by Otis Jones and directed by Giovanni Maucere, enhancing accessibility for Deaf audiences.

Golden Globe-Nominated ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER - Including Best Picture - Begins Streaming Exclusively On HBO Max December 19

The film is produced by Paul Thomas Anderson alongside Adam Somner and Sara Murphy, with Will Weiske serving as executive producer. The production has been noted for its blend of crime, political action, and dark comedy, reflecting contemporary societal issues.

Deadline Hollywood

The film's themes resonate with current societal anxieties, particularly regarding authoritarianism and personal redemption. Its critical success and the anticipation surrounding its streaming release highlight the ongoing relevance of cinematic storytelling in addressing complex social issues.

Variety Magazine

• “ Gleiberman went on to name “One Battle” the best movie of 2025, writing: “Paul Thomas Anderson’s greatest film since ‘Boogie Nights’ is a dystopian adventure of hair-raising relevance and haunting desperation.” — Owen Gleiberman, Chief Film Critic, Variety

Variety Magazine

“One Battle After Another” is poised to make a significant impact upon its streaming release, continuing to engage audiences with its thought-provoking narrative and stellar performances. As it transitions from theaters to home viewing, the film is expected to maintain its momentum in the awards circuit, further solidifying its place in contemporary cinema.

Variety Magazine