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Leonardo DiCaprio Stars in 'One Battle After Another,' a Hit Film and Cultural Milestone in San Diego

'One Battle After Another,' directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio del Toro, is set to release in theaters on September 26 and has already garnered critical acclaim and Oscar buzz. The film features DiCaprio as Bob Ferguson, a former revolutionary and current stoner, who is forced to confront his past to save his daughter from paramilitary forces. The movie combines serious themes of political struggle, oppression, and resistance with comedic elements, including slapstick moments reminiscent of the Three Stooges and Buster Keaton. DiCaprio, who finally checked off working with Anderson—a collaboration he long aspired to—delivers a subversive performance that challenges his traditional Hollywood image. Benicio del Toro plays Sensei Sergio, a martial arts instructor, and the film includes humorous scenes such as a spring-loaded rug trap and a road trip with a diamond-hanging camera shot. The film's trailer teases its comedic tone and action-packed sequences, with DiCaprio personally selecting unflattering sunglasses for his character. The movie was filmed extensively in San Diego County in 2024, injecting nearly $7 million into the local economy through filming activities in various locations, including Borrego Springs and the border area near Otay Mesa. Warner Bros. and local officials worked closely on permits and logistics, with the county hoping to attract more Hollywood productions in the future. The film's success and filming locations have already boosted San Diego’s profile as a desirable filming destination, comparable to Los Angeles, with ongoing efforts to market the region to filmmakers.

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