One Battle After Another

Bob’s entire presentation is a sustained rejection of dominant masculine norm. His caregiving is chaotic and flawed — but it is constant, attentive, and the most genuine thing about him. Bob navigates toward rather than away from women’s authority throughout and his relationship with Willa is genuinely collaborative for a parent. Sergio is the one male character who models genuine composure under pressure and is defined by quiet protective devotion rather than masculine aggression. Dominant masculinity is confined entirely to Lockjaw and other villains, and depicted with unflinching contempt. The film’s relational masculinity shows not through dialogue but through action: what these men do, who they protect, and what they give away.