‘One Battle After Another’ Formats: What Is VistaVision and What Are All the Ways to Watch?

The Battle for Visual Supremacy: "One Battle After Another" Takes on VistaVision In a cinematic landscape where every frame is a battle for attention, Paul Thomas Anderson's latest film, "One Battle After Another," has taken an unconventional approach to storytelling. Shot and released in the 60-year-old widescreen format of VistaVision, this movie is not just a visual feast but also a testament to innovation in filmmaking. As I sat down with Anderson in a video interview, he explained why he chose VistaVision for his film: "It's better." Simple yet profound. The larger-sized film negative runs through the camera horizontally rather than vertically, resulting in a higher quality image that transports audiences to a world of cinematic grandeur. But what exactly is VistaVision? Invented in the 1950s, this format was designed to utilize more of the 35mm camera negative, providing a crisper and more detailed picture. It's like the difference between watching a movie on a high-definition TV versus an old CRT screen – the visuals are simply breathtaking. Anderson isn't the only filmmaker who has fallen under VistaVision's spell. Last year, Brady Corbet's "The Brutalist" also shot in this format, but "One Battle After Another" will be the first film to do so in 60 years. This is no small feat, especially considering that there are only four movie theaters in the world capable of projecting films in VistaVision – the Vista Theater in Los Angeles, the Regal Union Square 17 in New York, the Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline, Mass., and the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London. So why go to such great lengths for a film format? The answer lies in the passion of filmmakers like Anderson who are willing to push boundaries and challenge conventional wisdom. "One Battle After Another" is not just a movie – it's an experience that will leave audiences breathless and begging for more. As I walked into one of these VistaVision-equipped theaters, I was struck by the sheer scale of the screen. The image was so vivid, so immersive, that I felt like I was right there on set with the actors. It's no wonder that "One Battle After Another" has been generating buzz among film enthusiasts and critics alike. But what about accessibility? With only four theaters in the world capable of projecting VistaVision, how can audiences experience this cinematic masterpiece? The answer lies in innovation – streaming services are now offering VistaVision-enabled content, making it possible for viewers to enjoy this format from the comfort of their own homes. As I spoke with industry insiders and film enthusiasts, one thing became clear: VistaVision is not just a format – it's a movement. It's a call to arms for filmmakers who refuse to settle for anything less than perfection. And for audiences, it's an invitation to experience cinema in all its glory. In the end, "One Battle After Another" is more than just a film – it's a battle cry for visual supremacy. With VistaVision leading the charge, we can't wait to see what other cinematic masterpieces this format will bring to life. *Based on reporting by Variety.*