Dir. Paul Thomas Anderson (trailer)
Writer and director Paul Thomas Anderson has created another unique film that only he could make. Phantom Thread is a romance that tells the story of a couple in post war London's high fashion society. Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis, who came out of retirement for this role), an older bachelor and fashion designer meets Alma (newcomer Vicky Krieps), a young waitress, and she becomes his muse.
On the surface, the film's plot may sound basic, but Anderson has crafted many intricate levels to the story, including Alma's outsider perspective to Reynolds' carefully calculated daily routine. As Alma tries to integrate herself into his life, she finds herself at odds with the man she loves, forcing her to take drastic measures to keep him interested in her. Alma also finds pushback from Reynolds' sister Cyril (Lesley Manville), who tries to warn Alma about the dangers of pushing Reynolds too far. While the film is a drama, it is often filled with dark humor and has many funny moments, that only a writer like Anderson could pull off.
Much like Anderson's previous film The Master, Phantom Thread keeps audiences at an arm's length with the film's crisp and sterile atmosphere and deeply flawed characters, but through incredible acting (especially from Day-Lewis, who gives an uncharacteristically understated performance) and a beautiful score from Jonny Greenwood, this film will win audiences over.
Fans of Paul Thomas Anderson and Daniel Day-Lewis, as well as art-house cinema will enjoy this unconventional love story.
Rating: ★★★★★
Recommended for fans of: drama, The Favourite (2018), Brief Encounter (1945), historical/period pieces, Carol (2015)
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