Conversation Over Cokes
“I’d like a Coke, with ice,” Paul Thomas Anderson requests from the waiter. “And I’d like a Coke, with ice,” Leonardo DiCaprio echoes, emphasizing the words and causing Anderson to laugh as the server departs.
Childlike Impressions
Anderson, in a playful imitation of a youthful San Fernando Valley accent, says, “I’d like a McDonald’s Coke, with iiiice!” to which DiCaprio responds, “Crunch-yyy ice!” They both dissolve into giggles, displaying their lighthearted camaraderie.
Past Collaborations and Future Aspirations
Years ago, Anderson and DiCaprio almost teamed up for Anderson’s second film, Boogie Nights, which could have significantly shaped their careers. Despite the missed opportunity, their mutual admiration led to ongoing discussions about potential collaborations. Anderson reflects, “Why wouldn’t you think of Leo? Who doesn’t, when creating something?”
A Unique Film Experience
Now, with One Battle After Another, they have finally fulfilled that promise. This film blends humor and tension, resulting in a personal story set against a chaotic moment in American history. It revolves around a former revolutionary (DiCaprio) on the run who must find his missing daughter, intertwining elements from Thomas Pynchon’s Vineland. It’s a genre-defying blend of absurdity and drama.
Building on Creative Bonds
The film features a stellar cast, including Sean Penn and Teyana Taylor, but truly reflects the strong creative bond between Anderson and DiCaprio. In two conversations, they delve into their friendship, their early aspirations to work together, and the late producer Adam Somner, who encouraged their collaboration.
Character Development and Research
DiCaprio shares his approach to developing his character, Bob, emphasizing his research into the radical movements of the 1960s to fully capture his character’s complexities. This exploration involved immersing himself in unique environments to understand the nuances of his character’s evolution.
A Film with Heart
Anderson believes optimism is crucial, especially as a father, feeling the urge to convey hope through his film. Despite the risks of making an optimistic movie in today’s climate, he and DiCaprio recognize the importance of community and resilience as central themes, reinforcing a message of caring for one another amidst chaos.
