Paul Thomas Anderson stands out as one of today’s most innovative and influential filmmakers. His approach to directing and storytelling continually evolves, blending distinct styles and exploring numerous genres. Known for movies that are events in themselves, Anderson’s work often recalls the narrative complexity of Robert Altman’s ensemble casts or the gritty intensity of Martin Scorsese, but he has also carved out his own unique cinematic path. With the release of One Battle After Another, it is timely to evaluate the full scope of Paul Thomas Anderson films and celebrate his remarkable career.
Breaking New Ground with “One Battle After Another”
Anderson’s latest film, One Battle After Another, showcases a fresh directorial strength by incorporating large-scale action sequences and a blockbuster production style, marking a shift toward a more mainstream audience. Yet beneath this accessibility lies a sharp political edge as the film centers on revolutionaries battling an oppressive, unnamed fascist regime clearly inspired by real-world white supremacists. The adaptation draws loosely from Thomas Pynchon’s novel Vineland, balancing entertainment with a timely message without resorting to preachiness. The collaboration with composer Jonny Greenwood and cinematographer Michael Bauman, who shot the film in VistaVision, elevates the experience with a captivating score and striking visuals.
Paul Thomas Anderson is flexing a new directorial muscle here, giving us action scenes, a blockbuster scale (done on a blockbuster budget), and even making some moves towards the mainstream. One Battle After Another is almost certainly his most accessible film, yet at the same time, it’s also easily his most political. The fascist government the revolutionaries are fighting against are unnamed white supremacists, though you don’t have to squint too hard to see who Anderson is raging at. The loose adaptation of Thomas Pynchon‘s Vineland never feels preachy, instead consistently seeking to entertain. The real world timeliness of the message just gives it all weight. PTA’s writing and direction is once again impeccable here, aided by another mesmerizing Jonny Greenwood score, as well as stunning cinematography (see it in VistaVision if you can!) from Michael Bauman.
The Heart of Youth in “Licorice Pizza”
Earlier films from Anderson reveal his range and emotional insight, such as Licorice Pizza, which captures the delicate nuances of young love with a brightness rarely seen in his work. Sharing cinematography duties with Bauman, Anderson infuses the film with warmth and humor while steering clear of irony. His sincere portrayal evokes nostalgia for youthful memories, supported by precise technical elements including Mark Bridges’ costumes and a restrained, effective soundtrack from Jonny Greenwood. Though leisurely paced, the film’s 133 minutes pass swiftly, thanks to its charm and honesty.
Paul Thomas Anderson writes and directs this (as well as sharing cinematography duties with Michael Bauman) with a clear smile on his face. He’s pondering young love, as only he can do it. Not only is this about as funny as Anderson has ever been, it’s also as romantic. He’s not winking, either. PTA believes what he’s selling. There’s an earnestness we’ve never seen from him before. His portrait of young love is like a memory of a time gone by, with all the hazy recollections one might have. Truly, it works. As always, the technical aspects of his work is flawless, from his visuals with Bauman, to Mark Bridges‘ costumes, to the minimal yet effective Jonny Greenwood score. Meandering but always fun, 133 minutes flies by.
Top Ten Paul Thomas Anderson Films Ranked
Anderson’s career is marked by a remarkable trio of films—Boogie Nights, Magnolia, and Punch-Drunk Love—each celebrated for its distinct style and emotional impact. This trio notably claims the top three spots in the ranking presented here. The next tier includes The Master, One Battle After Another, and There Will Be Blood, films that continue to demonstrate Anderson’s depth as a storyteller. Toward the lower end of the list are movies like Licorice Pizza, Phantom Thread, Hard Eight, and Inherent Vice, a grouping reflecting the overall exceptional quality found in his body of work rather than their lack of merit.
Here is the complete ranking of Paul Thomas Anderson films:
10. Inherent Vice
9. Hard Eight
8. Phantom Thread
7. Licorice Pizza
6. There Will Be Blood
5. The Master
4. One Battle After Another
3. Punch-Drunk Love
2. Boogie Nights
1. Magnolia
The Enduring Impact of a Modern Auteur
This ranking underscores why Paul Thomas Anderson has firmly established himself as a major figure among contemporary auteurs. With One Battle After Another now screening in theaters, audiences have an opportunity to witness for themselves how this film fits within his celebrated filmography. While awards season will reveal if this latest project earns him a long-awaited Oscar, there is no question about his mastery of the craft. Anderson’s work remains a benchmark of cinematic artistry, blending innovation, emotion, and social insight in ways few filmmakers consistently achieve.
As Anderson continues to evolve, viewers will no doubt watch closely to see where his next projects will lead, hopeful for further moments of filmic brilliance that only he can deliver.
