'One Battle After Another' Overtakes Sci-Fi Favourite at Aussie Box Office
Though worlds apart in genre, 'One Battle After Another' and Denis Villeneuve’s 'Arrival' have more in common than you’d expect.
Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest action-packed thriller has been making waves across the country for over two months now. Since its release on 26 September, the film has sparked plenty of chatter—some of it heated, some of it full of praise, and a fair bit of it just plain curious. It’s been a real talking point among locals, with punters and critics alike weighing in on everything from its gritty style to its bold storytelling. The buzz has even put it in the running for a few big awards next year, which is no small feat for any production.
Box Office Upset
Despite all the hype, the film didn’t exactly set the box office on fire. Still, it managed to pull in enough cash to edge out one of the most celebrated science fiction films of the past couple of decades. That’s no mean feat, considering the sci-fi flick in question has long been held up as a benchmark for the genre. The numbers might not have broken records, but they were solid enough to nudge the older favourite out of its spot.
Unexpected Parallels
What’s interesting is that, on the surface, these two films couldn’t be more different. One’s a hard-hitting action piece, the other a thoughtful exploration of alien contact and communication. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll spot some surprising similarities. Both stories centre on characters facing impossible odds, forced to make tough choices that ripple out far beyond their own lives. There’s a shared sense of urgency, a feeling that what’s at stake is bigger than any one person.
Critical Response and Awards Buzz
The reaction from critics has been a mixed bag. Some reckon Anderson’s film is a breath of fresh air, while others have taken the mickey out of its more over-the-top moments. Either way, it’s kept people talking, and that’s half the battle in today’s crowded market. With awards season just around the corner, there’s a fair bit of speculation about how it’ll fare against the competition. For now, though, it’s managed to do what few expected: outpace a modern sci-fi classic at the box office, even if only by a whisker.