Del Toro Wins Character of Year for Revolutionary Role

Benicio del Toro had an exceptional 2025, delivering memorable performances that reminded audiences why he remains one of Hollywood's most compelling actors. While his complex role as arms dealer Zsa-Zsa Korda in Wes Anderson's The Phoenician Scheme garnered significant attention, it was his supporting performance in Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another that truly stood out, earning him recognition as this year's most outstanding character portrayal.

A Community Leader Under Pressure

In Anderson's gripping tale of revolution and family bonds, del Toro embodies Sergio St. Carlos, known locally as Sensei Sergio. By day, he instructs children in martial arts, while simultaneously serving as a crucial figure for undocumented residents in Baktan Cross, California. His dual role becomes central to the film's narrative when former revolutionary Bob, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, desperately needs assistance after living peacefully under false identities for more than ten years.

The crisis begins when Colonel Steven Lockjaw, portrayed by Sean Penn, a dangerous right-wing extremist with deep hatred for former French 75 radical group members, finally tracks down Bob and his teenage daughter Willa, played by Chase Infiniti. When Bob's old allies rescue Willa from a school dance before Lockjaw's forces arrive, Bob's memory—clouded by years of substance abuse—fails him at the crucial moment of remembering their meeting location.

Courage in Action

Sergio becomes Bob's only trusted contact in Baktan Cross, immediately agreeing to help despite facing his own dangerous situation. Lockjaw has brought immigration enforcement officers as cover for his personal vendetta, while Sergio operates what he describes as "a little Latino Harriet Tubman situation going on at my place. All legit. From the heart." He must first ensure the safety of dozens of undocumented migrants before turning his attention to Bob's crisis.

Throughout the film, Sergio demonstrates natural leadership that contrasts sharply with Lockjaw's failed attempts at commanding respect through force and intimidation. The community genuinely loves and respects Sergio, from Bob himself to local teenagers and family members. One particularly amusing scene shows Sergio calmly but firmly guiding a frantic Bob through an apartment building like one of his young karate students, with Bob grudgingly following orders.

Humor and Heart

Del Toro brings considerable comic relief to the tense narrative, delivering one of the film's most memorable lines during a police traffic stop. When officers ask if he's been drinking, Sergio responds, "I've had a few." Pressed for details, he clarifies: "a few small beers." The moment provides unexpected levity while showcasing del Toro's perfect timing.

Beyond the humor, Sergio's true character emerges through his quiet bravery. Unlike the flashy, explosive tactics of the French 75 revolutionaries, Sergio helps people through direct, practical action. He risks everything to assist Bob, even though he has no obligation to do so. His sacrifice becomes evident when he surrenders himself to police after ensuring Bob's escape to safety. "I'll tell you what freedom is," he tells Bob during their pursuit of Willa. "No fear. Like Tom fucking Cruise."

The film's most powerful moments occur as Sergio guides frightened families, including many children carrying colorful backpacks and stuffed animals, through hidden passages toward sanctuary in a local church. These scenes quietly reinforce the movie's central theme: the struggle for justice never truly ends, making it essential to prepare the next generation to continue the fight with greater wisdom and effectiveness.