In a recent Paul Thomas Anderson interview collaboration with Leonardo DiCaprio, the two acclaimed artists opened up in an unusually candid exchange, revealing insights into their careers and personal perspectives. This discussion took place as both prepare to promote their first film together, One Battle After Another, due out on September 26, reflecting their longtime mutual respect and the unique ways they perceive their current creative phases.
Looking back: What might have been and missed opportunities
The interview began with Anderson asking DiCaprio if he had any major regrets in his career, to which the actor immediately responded with his decision not to participate in Anderson’s Boogie Nights. DiCaprio had to turn down the offer during the 1990s because of his commitment to Titanic, a choice that led Anderson to cast Mark Wahlberg instead. This moment set the tone for their conversation, spotlighting the puzzling gap of years in which they did not collaborate despite close admiration for each other’s work.
Exploring age and mindset through a playful exchange
A notable segment of the interview explored how both men view their age and mental state. Anderson posed a direct question to DiCaprio, asking what age he would assign himself if unaware of his actual years. DiCaprio quickly answered “thirty-two,” while Anderson shared that he felt mentally closer to 27, recalling his mindset during the release of Boogie Nights. This exchange revealed a shared sentiment of feeling connected to their younger selves, despite the reality of time passing.
Anderson: I’m going to ask you a question, and you’re going to answer as quickly as you can. If you didn’t know how old you are, how old are you right now?
DiCaprio: Thirty-two.
—Paul Thomas Anderson and Leonardo DiCaprio
The dialogue hinted at how DiCaprio’s current mental image sits somewhere between his work during The Aviator and The Departed, positioning him in a reflective space about his evolving place in the film industry. Anderson encouraged DiCaprio to investigate this self-assigned mental age further, teasing that it could lead to interesting discoveries.
What you’ll have to do is investigate what happened when you were thirty-two,
And then you’re going to discover and uncover why that was your answer.
—Paul Thomas Anderson
Balancing public image and creative focus amid changing roles
DiCaprio’s response opens the door to a broader understanding of his current mindset, especially as he approaches 50 years old and continues a deep collaboration with Martin Scorsese. Unlike the typical Hollywood interview that can feel forced or superficial, this conversation highlighted how both men prioritize genuine artistic engagement. DiCaprio’s evolving interest in production roles, alongside acting, marks a new stage in his career focused on legacy and creative control.
The interview also revealed moments of lightheartedness, such as their playful frustration with some of the questions provided by the interviewer at Esquire. Anderson’s willingness to reframe these questions made the interaction feel authentic, reflecting their shared identity as
“two cool guys in their 30s”
mentally, regardless of actual age.
You give so much to every role you play, once filming wraps, what do you do to come down from it?
—Paul Thomas Anderson (paraphrased question from Esquire)
The significance of their first joint project
One Battle After Another represents both a long-awaited union and a fresh chapter for DiCaprio and Anderson. Coming years after their initial near-collaboration on Boogie Nights, the film symbolizes how timing and circumstance can shape creative partnerships. Their openness during the interview offers audiences a unique glimpse into the minds of two very private and influential figures in modern cinema.
As the film hits theaters, this interview not only promotes their collaboration but also creates anticipation for how their shared perspectives will influence future projects. It marks a moment where legend meets introspection, blending decades of experience with a youthful, focused outlook on their craft.
