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Some films open quietly, giving you space to settle in. Not this one. One Battle After Another grabs you from the first frame, pulling you into its world without warning. The pace is relentless, and the mood shifts between explosive action and sly humour, as if the film itself is daring you to keep up. It’s a whirlwind introduction—jarring, electric, and impossible to look away from.
With Paul Thomas Anderson behind the camera—known for films like Boogie Nights, Magnolia, and There Will Be Blood—there’s always a certain level of expectation. This project feels no different, yet it still manages to stand apart, leaning into a tone that feels slightly less predictable while carrying the weight you’d expect from his work.
And at the centre of the storm is Leonardo DiCaprio. He doesn’t just play a role—he anchors the chaos, giving the story a beating heart. Each glance, each pause, feels charged with history and doubt. Around him, the cast shifts and collides, everyone caught in the undertow of conflict. The film’s true focus isn’t spectacle but the quiet pressure and raw uncertainty that shape those who survive.
Beneath the gunfire and strategy, the film lingers on the wounds you can’t see—the ones left behind when the fighting stops. It’s about the aftermath, the echoes of decisions made in the heat of battle, and the resilience it takes to keep moving forward. By the end, you realize this isn’t just a story about war—it’s about the people who emerge from it, changed forever.
Willa Ferguson, Played by Chase Infiniti in ‘One Battle After Another’ | Image: Supplied
The Past Has A Way Of Catching Up
One Battle After Another quickly draws you in and becomes much more personal than it first appears. Leonardo DiCaprio plays Bob Ferguson, a character who’s hard to define. He’s messy, unpredictable, and still haunted by his past. The story is based on Thomas Pynchon’s Vineland, but under Paul Thomas Anderson’s direction, it feels less like a straightforward adaptation and more like its own creation. The film is looser, more chaotic, and a bit tougher to figure out.
Bob isn’t a typical revolutionary hero. He was part of the French 75, but now he’s a single father living a quieter, somewhat unstable life with his daughter, Willa. Their relationship is at the heart of the film, shifting between frustration, humour, and quiet moments where feelings go unspoken. Chase Infiniti brings both toughness and vulnerability to Willa, making their connection feel genuine.
Perfidia Beverly Hills, Played by Teyana Taylor in ‘One Battle After Another’ | Image: Supplied
Perfidia Beverly Hills, played by Teyana Taylor in ‘One Battle After Another’ | Image: Supplied
Bob’s character also brings a surprising amount of humour, mostly through his paranoia and bad habits. These moments lighten the mood without detracting from the story’s seriousness. This balance keeps the film from becoming too heavy, even as things start to fall apart.
Just when things seem to find their rhythm, everything changes. Sean Penn appears as Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw, and the energy in the film shifts right away. He’s intense, a bit unhinged, and adds just enough absurdity to stand out while still fitting into the story.
After that, the story continues to move quickly. Bob is pulled back into a world he tried to leave, reconnecting with old friends and facing challenges that seem bigger than him. What begins quietly soon becomes a desperate struggle, with much more at stake than it first appeared.
Bob Ferguson, Played by Leonardo DiCaprio in ‘One Battle After Another’ | Image: Supplied
When It All Comes Together
Once the film settles in, One Battle After Another stands out for its smooth transitions between action, quieter character moments, and surprising humour. This mix is what makes the film special, especially with Leonardo DiCaprio leading the way. His laid-back and unpredictable performance really brings out the film’s focus on variety and tone.
There are moments that remind you of the energy DiCaprio showed in The Wolf of Wall Street and the intensity from The Revenant. But this time, the film has a different feel, leaning more into awkwardness, chaos, and physical comedy—something not often seen in his past roles.
This variety also shapes the film’s action, which never feels repetitive or overdone. The action scenes build tension naturally, and the car chases stand out because each has its own style. Instead of just getting bigger, the action changes in tone and purpose, leading to a finale that feels grounded and intentional, with a clear tribute to classic chase movies.
Besides DiCaprio, the supporting cast is key to the film’s balance. Teyana Taylor brings a strong, commanding presence to her scenes, while Regina Hall adds emotional depth that grounds the story. Benicio del Toro plays a quietly steady character, offering stability amid all the action, which proves more important than it seems at first.
Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw, Played by Sean Penn in ‘One Battle After Another’ | Image: Supplied
On the technical side, the film keeps up its momentum and never feels drawn out. Jonny Greenwood’s score grabs your attention right away and holds it, while Paul Thomas Anderson’s camera work gives the movie a constant sense of movement. Even in quieter scenes, something is always changing or building, keeping the film engaging throughout its longer runtime.
And speaking about the runtime, even though it goes past two and a half hours, the film never feels too long. The pacing keeps everything moving and makes the whole experience engaging from beginning to end. The length feels necessary, not excessive, which is just right for a film like this.
Bob Ferguson, Played by Leonardo DiCaprio in ‘One Battle After Another’ | Image: Supplied
When It’s All Said & Done
One Battle After Another is a film that doesn’t fit into just one category, and that’s part of its appeal. It shifts smoothly between action, drama, and humour, which helps it stand out without feeling forced. With Paul Thomas Anderson directing, expectations are high, and even though it’s too soon to compare it to his earlier movies, this already seems like a strong entry in his impressive body of work.
The film relies mostly on its characters, with Leonardo DiCaprio leading a cast that keeps things interesting. Not everyone will connect with it, especially given its length and shifting tone, but it still makes an impact. If it stands the test of time, it might become one of those movies people mention when discussing Anderson’s best work.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
Our team of editors and experts thoughtfully chooses each product. If you decide to buy through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Want to know how we test products? Click here for more details.
There’s just something about citrus fragrances — they’re like the ideal pick-me-up in a bottle. One spritz and suddenly you’re in an Italian orchard, with the sun warming your skin and fresh lemons and bergamot hanging heavy in the air. These scents are made for spring and summer, where bursts of orange, lime, lemon, and grapefruit keep things light, refreshing, and clean in the heat. They don’t last as long as the heavier woody or spicy options — and that’s exactly what makes them perfect for warmer weather, when you want a fragrance that feels effortless rather than overwhelming.
We’ve sampled some of the most popular citrus colognes out there, and each one has its own way of capturing sunshine. From zesty blends that feel like sipping cocktails by the beach, to refined compositions that add sophistication to your daily routine, these scents are crafted to lift your mood and elevate your style. Think of them as a quick escape to a clear-skied summer’s day — only this time, it’s just one spritz away. Let’s explore the citrus scene and see which ones earn a spot on your shelf.
Wearability: Bright and versatile, perfect for everyday & warmer weather
Longevity: 3–5 Hours
Price: from USD $168
There’s a reason Lime Basil & Mandarin has become one of Jo Malone’s signature creations — it’s fresh, unexpected, and entirely unisex. Instead of opting for the typical sweet citrus, this fragrance pairs vibrant lime with aromatic basil and a peppery note, adding a sophisticated touch that feels both contemporary and timeless. It’s the kind of scent that adapts beautifully, working perfectly for casual daytime wear or a more polished look in the evening.
Think of it as a citrus fragrance with a twist — lively yet with just enough depth to keep things interesting. It’s refreshing without feeling one-dimensional, striking the perfect balance between playful and sophisticated. The result is a scent that never feels out of place, whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or heading to a dinner party.
Scent: Vibrant orange zest, fresh lemon, mint, and a subtle mossy base
Wearability: Perfect for daytime, spring and summer freshness
Longevity: ~1–2 hours on skin, fading mostly by the second hour.
Price: USD $215
If there’s one fragrance that defines the phrase bottled sunshine, it’s Hermès Eau d’Orange Verte. Created back in 1979, this cologne remains as timeless and invigorating as a freshly peeled orange. From the first spray, you’re greeted with a juicy burst of citrus — orange and lemon — complemented by a green, earthy note that prevents it from becoming overly sweet. It’s crisp, bright, and effortlessly sophisticated, the kind of scent that feels just as perfect on a laid-back Sunday brunch as it does after a long day at the office when you need a little mood boost.
Sure, it doesn’t linger for hours like a woody or spicy fragrance, but that’s part of its charm — it’s meant to be light, airy, and uplifting, the olfactory equivalent of opening the windows on a breezy summer morning. Reapply whenever you feel like it, and let this classic Hermès creation remind you why citrus fragrances will never go out of style.
Scent: Bright neroli, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, with a soft ambergris base
Wearability: Ideal for spring and summer days, elegant yet casual
Longevity: 4–6 Hours
Price: USD $490
If sunshine had a tailor, it would probably smell like Neroli Sauvage from Creed. This citrus masterpiece elevates neroli with the addition of lemon, bergamot, and grapefruit, crafting a fragrance as crisp as a linen suit on a sweltering summer’s day. It’s breezy enough for an afternoon at the beach but refined enough for a rooftop cocktail party, finding the perfect balance between casual and elegant. With 4–6 hours of wear, it lasts just long enough to keep you smelling fresh without overstaying its welcome — like the perfect guest at a summer soirée.
Colonia Futura takes Acqua di Parma’s citrus heritage and gives it a modern, green twist. From the very first spray, you’re greeted with a lively burst of lemon, bergamot, and grapefruit that feels like stepping into the Italian sun. Then comes the herbal kick of clary sage, adding depth and character, while the earthy note of vetiver grounds the whole composition. It’s fresh, refined, and just the right amount of bold — a fragrance that reminds you citrus doesn’t always have to play it safe.
This is a scent that works anywhere: a crisp companion for warm afternoons, a stylish edge for evenings out, and even a confidence booster before a big meeting. It’s light enough for daily wear but complex enough to leave an impression, making Colonia Futura a valuable addition to any citrus lover’s collection.
Wearability: A bold citrus fragrance for spring and summer, day or night
Longevity: ~6–8 hours on skin
Price: USD $400
Perseus is Parfums de Marly’s take on citrus with muscle — a fragrance that doesn’t just refresh, it commands attention. The opening is a punchy burst of grapefruit and bergamot, sharp and invigorating, with blackcurrant adding a juicy twist. As it settles, dry woods and amber provide depth, while cashmere woods offer a smooth, sophisticated finish. The result is a citrus scent that feels both energetic and grounded, playful yet undeniably masculine.
This one stands out due to its strong presence. Unlike many citrus colognes that fade quickly, this one would last you for a couple of hours, making it suitable for work, evenings out, and all occasions in between. It’s bold but not overwhelming—a citrus scent that demonstrates Parfums de Marly’s ability to combine freshness with their characteristic luxury.
Wearability: Fresh and versatile, great for everyday wear year-round
Longevity: 7–8 Hours
Price: USD $155
Acqua di Giò Profondo builds on the original classic, Acqua di Giò, by adding more depth and maturity. The fragrance opens with bright citrus notes — bergamot and green mandarin — but its true shine comes from how it combines these notes with invigorating marine accords. As it develops, herbal hints of rosemary and lavender introduce sophistication, while cypress and patchouli provide a clean, masculine edge.
It’s the kind of fragrance that feels like plunging into deep blue waters — invigorating, bold, yet effortlessly suitable. It’s ideal for everything from workdays to evenings out, balancing fresh citrus brightness with confident modern masculinity. For men seeking a citrus scent with more staying power and depth, Profondo is an easy choice.
Louis Vuitton calls it Pacific Chill, but this scent could easily be named “vacation in a bottle.” It bursts open with juicy blackcurrant and zesty lemon, instantly cooling like a citrus sorbet on a hot afternoon. Add basil, coriander, and peppermint, and you have a fragrance that feels like your favourite detox drink — only much more stylish. The fig and carrot seed smooth things out, giving it just enough depth to stop it from being your average citrus splash.
This is citrus with a designer touch: playful, breezy, and just a touch indulgent. It’s ideal for sunny days when you seek something both refreshing and sophisticated, like enjoying cocktails along the coast as the ocean breeze keeps you cool. It lingers long enough to leave an impression without losing that light, carefree vibe.
Scent: Australian finger lime, coriander, vetiver, sandalwood, and cedarwood
Wearability: Perfect for summer days, casual outings, & laid-back evenings
Longevity: 5–7 Hours
Price: USD $205
If you’ve ever wondered what an Australian summer smells like, Bohemian Lime offers the answer. Beginning with the sharp, juicy burst of finger lime — a citrus native to Australia — it immediately feels fresh, zesty, and vibrant. The coriander adds a spicy-green note, while vetiver and sandalwood introduce smooth, woody depth that makes it more than just a fleeting citrus splash.
What makes Bohemian Lime stand out is its relaxed charm. It doesn’t try too hard to impress, yet it has a fresh, inviting quality that encourages people to lean in a little closer. Think of it as citrus with a free spirit — playful, adventurous, and effortlessly stylish, like a fragrance made for road trips along the coast or golden afternoons outdoors.
Wearability: Perfect for summer days, seaside escapes, or upscale evenings
Longevity: 5–7 Hours
Price: USD $490
We’ve got another Creed for you, and this one is all about coastal elegance. Millésime Impérial is essentially bottled seaside luxury — imagine Amalfi coastlines, golden sunsets, and the salty kiss of sea air drifting through citrus orchards. The opening delivers a juicy citrus burst before settling into a refined blend of fruits, salty marine notes, and a musky-woody base that keeps everything balanced and sophisticated.
It’s light and breezy yet undeniably luxurious, perfect for a yacht deck, summer wedding, or an evening outing where you want to stay effortlessly elegant. It lasts well enough to see you through the day without fading, leaving a fresh, regal scent that underscores Creed’s dominance in the luxury citrus market.
Yves Saint Laurent MYSLF Eau de Parfum | Image: Yves Saint Laurent
10. Yves Saint Laurent – MYSLF Eau de Parfum
Scent: Calabrian bergamot, Tunisian orange blossom, patchouli, & musky woods
Wearability: A versatile citrus-woody blend for both day & night
Longevity: 7–9 Hours
Price: USD $165
We saved the best for last with YSL’s MYSLF, a fragrance that feels like citrus confidence bottled up and dressed in black. It opens with the sparkling brightness of Calabrian bergamot before easing into the smooth floral warmth of Tunisian orange blossom. As it settles, patchouli and musky woods add depth and longevity, creating a blend that’s fresh, bold, and unmistakably modern.
What makes MYSLF unique is its versatility. It’s crisp and energetic enough for daytime wear, yet its woody-musky base gives it the edge you need at night. The result? A scent that feels as sharp as a tailored blazer but as comfortable as your go-to T-shirt — making it one of the most stylish ways to finish off our citrus fragrance lineup.
Before we finish, there are a few citrus highlights that didn’t make the main list but are still worth a spot in your rotation. Think of these as the bonus round — fragrances that add their own kick of freshness, character, and style. They might not shine as brightly as the main stars, but each one offers something special, whether it’s bold sophistication, coastal charm, or just a fresh twist on a classic.
Tom Ford – Private Blend Mandarino Di Amalfi (USD $300): This is Tom Ford’s interpretation of bottling the Italian coast. Bursting with juicy mandarin, lemon, and basil, it feels like sipping a cocktail on a terrace overlooking the Amalfi cliffs, with the sea breeze mingling with citrus orchards. Hints of herbs and florals add a sophisticated touch, making it both luxurious and relaxed. It’s not just a fragrance — it’s a summer escape you can spray on at any time, ideal for men who want their citrus with a hint of elegance.
Hugo Boss – BOSS Bottled Bold Citrus (USD $170): A sharper, fresher spin on the BOSS classic, this fragrance amplifies the citrus with bright mandarin and grapefruit before layering them over woods and spices. The result is clean, lively, and contemporary, a scent that feels designed for the man who thrives on hustle and precision. It’s office-appropriate yet confident enough to take you into the evening, hitting that perfect balance between business sharpness and casual style.
Jo Malone London Pomegranate Noir Cologne (USD $168): Not your typical citrus, but the sparkling top notes give way to ripe pomegranate, smoky guaiac wood, and spicy undertones for a bold, unisex statement. It’s rich, intriguing, and exudes a mysterious charm that sets it apart from lighter citrus options. Imagine citrus colliding with a darker, juicier core — the result is a fragrance that feels daring and effortlessly chic, perfect for nights when you want to stand out without shouting.
Dior Sauvage Eau de Parfum (USD $232): One of the most iconic men’s fragrances of the last decade, Sauvage starts with a burst of Calabrian bergamot, followed by spicy pepper notes and ambroxan. The citrus top notes give it a fresh edge that immediately grabs your attention, but it’s the strong, long-lasting dry down that makes it so adaptable. Whether you’re at the office, going out for the night, or travelling, Sauvage is that dependable scent that always adds fresh confidence with a magnetic appeal.
Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Pour Homme (USD $182): A quintessential summer classic, Light Blue Pour Homme is crisp, breezy, and refreshingly timeless. Bursting with grapefruit, bergamot, and aquatic notes, it instantly transports you to the Mediterranean — think sunlit coastlines, turquoise waters, and salty air. It’s casual yet seductive, light enough for daily wear but charismatic enough to make an impression. This is one of those scents that never goes out of style, as it captures the essence of summer perfectly.
Why Trust Our List?
Choosing the right citrus fragrance can feel overwhelming — with so many options promising freshness and style, it’s hard to know which ones truly stand out. That’s why our selections are based on real testing, research, and feedback from fragrance enthusiasts who understand the difference between a passing trend and a timeless classic. We’ve concentrated on how these scents perform in daily life — from their balance of citrus notes to their versatility across seasons and occasions. This list isn’t just a collection of bottles; it’s a carefully curated guide rooted in genuine experience and a love for fragrances, so you can trust that each pick truly deserves a spot in your rotation.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
