5 Best Paul Thomas Anderson Movies to Watch Before 'One Battle After Another'

A new film from the modern cinema classic, One Battle After Another, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, hits theaters on September 26. The movie has already received rave reviews, earning a near-perfect 97% on Rotten Tomatoes.

In preparation for the release of One Battle After Another, let's take a look at the director's best works.

1. 'Boogie Nights', 1997

IMDb Score: 7.9/10

The movie opens in 1977 in San Fernando Valley. History is being made here – the adult film industry is booming.

A young man named Eddie Adams meets porn director Jack Horner, who believes he's destined to be a star. Eddie transforms into Dirk Diggler, and show business becomes his new family and purpose in life.

Anderson not only depicts the ups and downs of the scandalous industry onscreen but also captures the spirit of the turbulent 1970s.

2. 'Punch-Drunk Love', 2002

IMDb Score: 7.3/10

Barry Egan is the epitome of a neurotic man, who was born into a large family with seven sisters. Constantly suppressed by his relatives, he grew up completely insecure.

He lives in his own little world, plagued by insecurities and communication difficulties. Everything changes overnight when he meets a mysterious stranger. Now, he must win over the woman who has awakened so many feelings in him.

Romantic comedy isn't the genre that comes to mind when Anderson is mentioned. However, the director knows how to create masterpieces and surprise audiences. Punch-Drunk Love is more of a dramedy than a rom-com, though.

3. 'The Master', 2012

IMDb Score: 7.1/10

In Paul Thomas Anderson's sixth feature film, the protagonist, Freddie, is arguably Joaquin Phoenix's best performance. Freddie is a drifter and a former naval officer who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Freddie falls into the hands of Lancaster Dodd, the leader of a religious cult. Freddie falls under the influence of his new mentor and his teachings and soon becomes his right-hand man.

4. 'Magnolia', 1999

IMDb Score: 8.0/10

Magnolia is a multilayered work with multiple plot lines. It features a police officer searching for love, a trophy wife rethinking her life, a former child prodigy with no money, and a motivational speaker who is coming to terms with his dying father.

These are just a few of the characters who represent the San Fernando Valley. They will all face a challenging day that ends in the most unexpected way.

At three hours long, Magnolia is perhaps the most complex in Anderson's filmography. Yet, he masterfully tells nine stories simultaneously without overwhelming the viewers.

5. 'There Will Be Blood', 2007

IMDb Score: 8.2/10

The story revolves around Daniel Plainview, played by Daniel Day-Lewis, a miner turned oil tycoon who will do anything to increase his fortune. Wealth and power drive the entrepreneur to obsession and madness, and a feud with the local preacher, Eli, haunts him for years.

Perhaps Anderson achieved his best finale in this movie, reminiscent of a grand theatrical performance by two brilliant actors.