The recent release of Paul Thomas Anderson’s film, One Battle After Another, marks a significant moment in contemporary cinema, tackling the complexities of American society and politics. This film, alongside Ari Aster’s Eddington, presents a stark portrayal of the United States amidst ongoing crises. Both films are a reflection of a nation grappling with division, as they explore themes of radicalism, family dynamics, and societal collapse.
One Battle After Another draws inspiration from Thomas Pynchon’s novel Vineland, updating its narrative through the lens of modern America. The protagonist, Bob (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), is an aging activist and a remnant of a radical group, the French 75. This fictional brigade engaged in bank robberies and protests for a cause centered around “free borders, free choices, free from fear.” Bob navigates the challenges of single parenthood while living a secluded lifestyle, until the arrival of Colonel Lockjaw (played by Sean Penn), an army veteran who claims to be the father of Bob’s daughter, Willa (Chase Infiniti).
Ari Aster’s Eddington also mirrors this exploration of chaos, set in a pandemic-stricken desert town. The narrative follows Sheriff Joe Cross (played by Joaquin Phoenix), who becomes embroiled in a political battle after refusing to wear a mask. His rivalry with Mayor Ted Garcia (played by Pedro Pascal) intensifies as societal tensions rise, showcasing a landscape fraught with race riots and corporate corruption. Aster’s film culminates in a chaotic shoot-out, reflecting the overwhelming issues of the modern era.
Both films operate within a framework that questions the integrity of American institutions. They resonate with audiences by highlighting a sense of confusion and despair, reminiscent of the sentiments expressed in the 1970s cinema explored by film scholar Robin Wood. In his influential work, Wood described the era’s films as revealing an incoherence that reflected societal disillusionment. This theme is unmistakable in the narratives of Anderson and Aster, as they depict a world where the familiar structures of governance and family are under immense strain.
Anderson’s choice of visual format also pays homage to cinematic history. While Aster utilized Panavision for Eddington, Anderson employed VistaVision, a technique that enhances the film’s epic scope. This choice serves to connect contemporary struggles with the grand narratives of Hollywood’s past, creating an evocative backdrop for their stories.
The emotional core of both films lies in their family dynamics. One Battle After Another questions the roles of fatherhood and motherhood within a fractured society. Bob’s relationship with Willa and his interaction with the domineering Colonel Lockjaw evoke classic familial conflicts, while also reflecting broader societal issues. Aster’s film, though steeped in chaos, similarly focuses on personal narratives amid external turmoil, illustrating how individual lives are impacted by larger political forces.
While the filmmakers tackle radicalism and societal breakdown, they also leave viewers with stark imagery of a nation in crisis. Anderson’s vision of a post-Obama America, laden with corporate interests and a legacy of immigration issues, paints a grim picture of the current political landscape. Aster, in contrast, reveals a world filled with violence and despair, suggesting a loss of hope.
As audiences grapple with the implications of these films, critics have noted their relevance to the ongoing discourse surrounding American democracy. Steven Spielberg described One Battle After Another as “this insane movie,” emphasizing its portrayal of themes that resonate deeply in today’s context. Both films serve as a reminder that cinema can still challenge prevailing narratives and provoke thought, even in an era marked by uncertainty.
In conclusion, One Battle After Another and Eddington stand as poignant examples of cinema’s power to reflect and critique the state of society. By confronting the chaos of modern America, these films not only entertain but also invite viewers to engage with pressing issues that shape our world today.
