Beyoncé’s acclaimed song “Freedom,” featuring Kendrick Lamar, energizes the recently released trailer for Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming film One Battle After Another, unveiled on July 24. The Paul Thomas Anderson film trailer uses the anthem to intensify the dramatic feel of the movie, which is scheduled to premiere on September 26.
Plot and Star-Studded Cast Bring Thriller to Life
The film follows former revolutionary vigilantes, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio and Teyana Taylor, as they evade a white supremacist police officer played by Sean Penn. DiCaprio’s character’s daughter, played by Chase Infiniti, attempts to revive the French 75 group, which includes notable cast members such as Benicio del Toro and Regina Hall. The story centers on the group’s efforts to reunite amid the return of an old adversary.
Director and Composer Promise a Spectacle of Scale and Emotion
Marking Anderson’s first feature since 2021’s Licorice Pizza, the film benefits from his distinct creative approach. At CinemaCon in April, Leonardo DiCaprio remarked,
“an incredibly epic movie [that] has such scope and scale. A lot of writer-directors are incredibly rigid, but [Anderson’s] ability to work with actors is so unique.”
The soundtrack’s mood is further enhanced by composer Johnny Greenwood, with filming completed using 35mm VistaVision cameras in California during early 2024.
“Freedom” Lends Inspirational Energy Rooted in Collaboration
The song “Freedom,” produced by Just Blaze, originally featured on Beyoncé’s 2016 Lemonade album and represents her first collaboration with Kendrick Lamar. The gospel rock-inspired track, recognized with a Grammy nomination, peaked at number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its inclusion in the trailer adds a passionate and hopeful layer to the film’s tense narrative.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Theatrical Release
The trailer’s release highlights the excitement surrounding One Battle After Another as audiences await the film’s September debut. Combining a gripping storyline, a powerful soundtrack, and a remarkable ensemble cast, the movie is poised to be a significant cultural event within the cinematic landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How long did Fiona Apple date Paul Thomas Anderson?
A. He was in a relationship with musician Fiona Apple from 1997 to 2002. In 2020, Apple mentioned he struggled with anger issues at that time. She recalled an incident where he threw a chair and another where he pushed her out of his car. Apple said parts of the relationship made her feel “fearful and numb.”
