Phantom Thread

Perhaps better known as what could be Daniel Day-Lewis' last film before retiring, Phantom Thread explores a well renowned dressmaker who invites a young waitress to live him and become a model in 1950s London. This is not exactly thrilling material on paper but having impressed with one of the last decade's best films, There Will Be Blood, reuniting Daniel with director Paul Thomas Anderson caught the attention of cinephiles everywhere.

There Will Be Blood was a gripping drama and every bit as tough and grim as the title might suggest. Daniel shined in the lead role as a prospector who wasn't arrived to play dirty if it meant success but Phantom Thread takes him in a dramatically different direction as the dressmaker. Just as vicious when someone interrupts his concentration, Daniel's performance as Reynolds Woodcock is no less fascinating to watch. However, this is one experience that will not appeal to all as Daniel theoretically concludes his career.

Without a doubt, visually this is beautifully made and well-crafted from the talented team behind the scenes, as are the cast in front of the camera and Jonny Greenwood's score works as well as ever. It is slow moving though and, while just running over two hours, it is not my easiest recommendation but that's not to say I didn't enjoy it. Anderson's directing is precise and the story is engaging but anyone expecting There Will Be Blood again will leave disappointed.

It is strange for its lead to pick this as his final film. His career spans many years, if not many films when compared to others, but it wouldn't suit him to pick a grand standing performance. Instead perhaps this subtle role was a good choice even if it's a film I might not still be thinking about in a weeks time. Phantom Thread won over the critics and I can see why, and Anderson fans will leave satisfied. For everyone else, this is as subtle as Woodcock's secrets in his work and will not appeal to all but very well made nonetheless.