SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — After filming for about six weeks in San Diego County, Paul Thomas Anderson’s new film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, “One Battle After Another,” hits theaters on Friday.
“One Battle After Another” tells the story of a former revolutionary, played by DiCaprio, who must face the consequences of his past when an old nemesis returns. The film currently sits at 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, with more than 100 reviews.
In 2024, filmmakers shot on location in county parks and communities in the San Diego area. Departments such as the Economic Development and Government Affairs (EDGA), Planning and Development Services and the Parks and Recreation Department all worked with Warner Bros. throughout the shoot.
“EDGA is working to attract more films, TV shows, print ads and commercials,” Deputy Director of EDGA Steve Lockett said in a news release. “We are looking at ways to better market the County as a destination for film makers.”
Locations in the City of San Diego, Borrego Springs, Otay Mesa and other parts of the county may be recognizable to locals watching the movie in theaters.
“The trailer has iconic shots of Borrego Springs, and some around the border that I hope made it into the movie,” EDGA Creative Economy Manager Giang Meyers said.
The filming process also had a significant impact on the San Diego economy; officials project the movie’s production injected $6.8 million in the local economy.
This comes “from lodging, to food, paying movie extras and technicians, and the cost of the goods used in filming,” the county stated.
With other film classics like “Top Gun” (1986) and “Citizen Kane” (1941), county officials hope Anderson’s new film brings more film productions to San Diego.
“San Diego County has an abundance of wonderful and varied shooting locations, many of which rival what is available in Los Angeles County,” Lockett said. “In addition, our permitting process is quicker and cheaper, and we have been told that we’re easier to reach.”
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