In 1971, a young Daniel Day-Lewis made his on-screen debut at the age of 13. His appearance, though brief, hinted at a remarkable career ahead. Over the next five decades, Day-Lewis would become an iconic figure in cinema, ultimately winning three Academy Awards for Best Actor. This achievement made him the only actor in history to do so. His notable works include acclaimed performances in “My Left Foot,” “Lincoln,” and “There Will Be Blood,” which not only garnered critical acclaim but also transformed the landscape of acting.
Known for his intense methods, Day-Lewis immersed himself deeply in his roles. He built canoes for “The Last of the Mohicans” and famously stayed in character while shooting “My Left Foot,” even using a wheelchair off-camera. In 2017, after releasing “Phantom Thread,” he announced his retirement from acting, stating the creative fulfillment he once felt had diminished.
Daniel Day-Lewis Returns in “Anemone”
Seven years later, Day-Lewis returns to the screen in “Anemone,” a modest British drama released by Focus Features. Co-written with his son Ronan Day-Lewis, the film tells the story of a man attempting to reconnect with his estranged brother amid the forests of northern England. The film offers a slow-paced, introspective narrative.
Film Reception
- Runtime: 125 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 5.7/10 based on over 4,500 reviews
- Metascore: 53
The initial reception has been mixed, with critiques focusing on its deliberate pacing and thematic depth. Some praised the striking cinematography and brooding score, while others commented on its narrative vagueness. One review noted that the film feels burdened by its attempts at sophistication.
Day-Lewis’s Performance
Despite these critiques, Day-Lewis’s portrayal of Ray, a man grappling with grief and family legacy, has received acclaim. His nuanced performance communicates profound emotion through pauses and subtle gestures rather than lengthy dialogues. This mastery gives audiences a glimpse of his enduring talent.
Cinematic Context
The emergence of “Anemone” raises questions about the current film landscape. In his last major role in “Phantom Thread,” Day-Lewis played a character whose obsession with artistry mirrored his own journey. The film industry has evolved, increasingly favoring high-volume content driven by streaming services. This shift challenges the space for slow, contemplative cinema like “Anemone.”
While critiques have surfaced regarding the potential nepotism involved in the film’s creation, many agree that it carries artistic merit. Its atmosphere and visual storytelling have drawn comparisons to the early works of directors like Lynne Ramsay. Whether “Anemone” succeeds in a broader sense remains uncertain, but it signifies a heartfelt return for Day-Lewis and showcases his unwavering passion for cinema.
As a unique figure in film, Daniel Day-Lewis emphasizes that the artistic endeavor still holds significant value. His new project, though modest, becomes a statement about his commitment to craft, a reflection on legacy, and a collaboration with his son in a changing industry.
