Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio Del Toro discuss their new political satire One Battle After Another, set for September 26, highlighting DiCaprio’s decision not to return to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, sharing behind-the-scenes insights, and expressing excitement for the film’s sharp humor, emotional depth, and timely social commentary.

Hollywood fans have a lot to look forward to this fall as Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio Del Toro sat down with ET’s Nischelle Turner to discuss their latest film, One Battle After Another, which is set to hit theaters on September 26, 2025.

The political satire, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sophia Martinez, finds DiCaprio in a role that showcases his wit, charisma, and commitment to socially conscious storytelling, while Del Toro brings his signature intensity to a complex supporting character.

The interview provided intriguing insights not only into the film but also into the evolving legacies of these two Hollywood veterans.

During the sit-down, DiCaprio weighed in on recent news regarding Brad Pitt’s return to the universe of Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

Reports had circulated about a potential sequel centered on Cliff Booth, Pitt’s iconic stuntman character.

While fans speculated that DiCaprio’s Rick Dalton might reprise a central role, DiCaprio clarified that he will not be returning.

“Rick Dalton’s chapter feels complete,” he told Turner with a thoughtful smile.

“Brad’s Cliff Booth is stepping into the spotlight, and it’s his story to tell.

I’m thrilled for him, and I think audiences will love seeing that perspective explored.”

The conversation took a playful turn when Turner asked DiCaprio about his approach to the physically demanding aspects of One Battle After Another.

The 50-year-old actor, known for his dedication to performing stunts and action sequences, joked that the film paints him as “the opposite of Tom Cruise” when it comes to Mission: Impossible-style action.

“I admire what Tom does, truly,” DiCaprio said with a grin, “but I’ve always preferred diving into the emotional and political intensity of a story rather than risking my neck for high-altitude helicopter shots.

I leave that to him!”

Benicio Del Toro, sitting beside him, chimed in about the chemistry between the two stars on set.

“Working with Leo is always a unique experience,” Del Toro said.

“He brings this incredible energy and attention to detail, and the way we both approached the satirical elements of the script really elevated the story.

Audiences are going to see a different side of both of us.”

Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and social commentary, One Battle After Another follows a fictionalized election season, with DiCaprio playing a cunning campaign strategist navigating a world of corruption, media spin, and personal compromise.

Del Toro plays a veteran journalist whose moral compass is tested as he uncovers the high-stakes games behind the headlines.

According to the actors, much of the humor and drama is drawn from real-life political absurdities, allowing the film to resonate with viewers while maintaining a sharp satirical edge.

The discussion also revealed some behind-the-scenes anecdotes from filming in multiple international locations, including New York City, Washington, D.C., and select European capitals.

DiCaprio described shooting a tense scene in the middle of Times Square during rush hour, noting that coordinating the cameras, extras, and live traffic required a level of precision that rivaled a military operation.

Del Toro added that one sequence filmed in Berlin involved improvisational dialogue with street performers, which unexpectedly became one of the most talked-about moments in the editing room.

When Turner asked about their favorite moments on set, both actors highlighted the collaborative environment fostered by Martinez, whose direction encouraged spontaneity and creative input.

“Sophia allows us to explore the characters fully,” DiCaprio explained.

“There’s a balance between following the script and finding truth in the moment, and that’s what makes the satire hit harder.”

Del Toro nodded, adding, “It’s rare to have a set where everyone is challenged creatively but also feels supported.

That energy translates directly to the screen.”

As the interview wrapped up, Turner touched on the broader implications of the film, noting that in a year of politically charged media and heightened public discourse, One Battle After Another arrives at a particularly relevant moment.

DiCaprio emphasized that the satire is meant to spark reflection as much as entertainment.

“We want people to laugh, but also to think critically about power, influence, and the decisions that shape society,” he said.

Del Toro agreed, underscoring that the film’s layered storytelling invites audiences to engage with complex questions rather than offering simple answers.

With its official release just around the corner, One Battle After Another is poised to be a standout in the fall cinematic lineup, blending sharp political commentary, compelling performances, and moments of both tension and humor.

For fans of DiCaprio, Del Toro, and thought-provoking cinema, the film promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience.

Meanwhile, DiCaprio’s clarification about not returning to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood ensures that attention remains on the new project, offering a fresh perspective and an exciting chapter in his already illustrious career.

The countdown to September 26 has officially begun, and audiences are eager to see how One Battle After Another balances satire, drama, and performance, while also keeping an eye on Hollywood’s shifting landscape as legends like DiCaprio and Pitt continue to navigate their enduring legacies.