Sean Penn, who has a supporting role in Paul Thomas Anderson’s “The Battle of Baktan Cross,” donated coins to the cast and crew of the film before shooting wrapped — they can be seen below (via r/paulthomasanderson).
As you can see, Penn’s character's name is most likely Col. Steven J. Lockjam. He’s part of an ensemble cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, and Regina Hall, Alana Haim, Teyana Taylor, Wood Harris, and Benicio del Toro.
One of the coins has “A Paul Thomas Anderson Motion Picture & Ballroom Extravaganza” stamped on it. The second coin has “Presented by Col. Steven J. Lockjam,” “MKU,” and “Wet n’ Stinky Fuck Devil’s Brigade.”
“MKU” seemingly stands for MANKIND UNITED RIO DUARTE which might or might not be connected to a dissolved 1930s California-based secret cult.
While specific plot details are currently being kept under wraps, ‘Baktan Cross’ is set in a contemporary setting and is being described as Anderson's “most commercial” film to date. Penn’s behind-the-scenes memento is sure to get people theorizing further about the film’s plot, which is rumored to be PTA’s modern-day take on Thomas Pynchon’s “Vineland.”
The Wall Street Journal recently reported that PTA’s latest has a budget of $140M. Original reporting had it costing anywhere between $100-$125 million. Jeff Sneider claims it might actually be $175M.
The film is due in theaters on August 8, 2025.
