Update about Paul Thomas Anderson’s “Battle of Baktan Cross”.

Sean Penn, who has a supporting role in Paul Thomas Anderson’s new film has gifted special coins to the cast and crew before shooting wrapped. They were posted on r/paulthomasanderson.

Penn’s character’s name is most likely Col. Steven J. Lockjam. one of the coin has “A Paul Thomas Anderson Motion Picture & Ballroom Extravaganza” written on it. the other has “presented by Col. Steven J. Lockjam”, “MKU” and “Wet n’ stinky fuck devil’s brigade” printed on it.

MKU seemingly stands for ‘Mankind United Rio Duarte’, which might or might not be connected to a dissolved 1930s California-based secret cult.

While plot details are under wraps, ‘Baktan Cross’ is rumored to be a modern-day take on Thomas Pynchon’s ‘Vineland’. It is being reported as PTA’s “most commercial” film to date, with car stunts and all. WSJ reported that the film, which is set up at Warner Bros. has a budget of $140 million. other trades reported it to be around $100 million - $125 million.

Main leads for the film are Leonardo DiCaprio, Regina Hall, Alana Haim, Wood Harris and Benicio del Toro. Sean Penn also had a cameo role in PTA’s last film “Licorice Pizza”.

The film is due in theatres on August 8, 2025.