Oscar-winning actor Benicio Del Toro reflects on his role as Sensei in Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another,' a film generating awards buzz 24 years after his 'Traffic' win. In a Variety interview, he shares insights from on-set research with migrants in El Paso, the mantra 'Get back on defense,' and his concerns about the lack of a Latino movement in Hollywood storytelling. Del Toro also expresses ambitions to direct projects highlighting Latino experiences.
Film Role and Performance
Benicio Del Toro stars as Sensei in Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another,' a character described as providing quiet dignity and optimism amid chaos. The film has entered awards conversations, reminding audiences of Del Toro's compelling presence since his 2001 Oscar for 'Traffic.' Del Toro joined the project eagerly, stating, “It’s PTA. He calls any actor on the planet, and they’re going to say, ‘Yeah, what do you got? Whatever, I’ll do it.'” The cast includes Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn, enhancing the appeal.
Production involved immersive research, including visits to El Paso facilities where migrant families await processing. “It was pretty moving, seeing these people... looking for a better future, being stuck in a situation that is pretty unstable,” Del Toro recalled. This groundwork informed the team's approach, making the story feel authentic for actors, directors, and departments alike.
Anderson's direction emphasized resilience with the phrase “Get back on defense,” a callback from their 'Inherent Vice' collaboration that made it into the script. Del Toro explained, “Don’t get bogged down on things... Think about the next play.” He views this as a healthy mindset for actors, encouraging quick recovery from setbacks.
Latino Representation in Hollywood
As one of few Latino Oscar winners, Del Toro offers a candid view on industry progress. “I still haven’t seen a Latino movement,” he said, contrasting it with African American or Italian American narratives led by figures like Spike Lee or Martin Scorsese. While opportunities for actors have grown with more platforms, he notes gaps in stories about diverse Latino communities across the U.S., including Puerto Rico, Florida, and Texas.
Del Toro hopes to contribute by directing, drawing from his experiences. “I’ve had an incredible education on cinema... I want to maybe get behind and tell a story that comes from me — being American, being Latino,” he shared. He believes the next voices are emerging from younger generations in high school or college.
Hope and Future Outlook
Del Toro finds inspiration in Sensei's positivity, paralleling turbulent times like 1968 to today. “You just have to keep going. I have faith in the youth,” he said, despite joking about his daughter's phone habits. The actor is prepping for a January shoot and eyes hosting 'SNL' someday. “The worst thing would be to quit,” he affirmed, embodying resilience both on and off screen.
