Phantom Thread (2017)
2017
R
130 Minutes
In the glamour of 1950s post-war London, renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock and his sister Cyril are at the center of British fashion, dressing royalty, movie stars, heiresses, socialites, debut...
User Review
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Phantom Thread is a bombardment of cinematic showmanship. Probably once a year, I watch a film that overwhelms me. I feel pure elation when watching it, that I instantly grin and start to become emotionally attached to what's on screen. Ladies and gentlemen, Phantom Thread is that film. A renowned fashion designer helplessly falls in love with a young waitress where the relationship tinkers between distance and affection to which they must learn to overcome. I'm not the biggest fan of Anderson, but I can acknowledge that PTA's filmography encapsulates the beauty of cinema. Engrossing, captivating and memorable pieces of work. His collaboration with Day-Lewis is another success, and in my opinion better than 'There Will Be Blood'. The story encompasses both the highlights and low points of a rapid relationship. The routinely based idiosyncrasies of Reynolds juxtaposes the spontaneous surprises of Alma. Starting off with the best of intentions yet succumbing to the twisted dark love of vulnerability. He is a particular man, one who resents deviations from his lavish work. There really was only one class act that could portray such a pernickety yet conflicted character with ease, Daniel Day-Lewis. If this is to be his final acting credit, he went out in style. His soft speech, gentle workmanship as he threads the elegant costumes (which will win every award going...) and ill-tempered manner was simply overwhelming. Both Manville and Krieps held strong performances against him to which also carried the pace incredibly well. Greenwood's overpowering original score was intoxicating and enhanced the romantic tension between the two lead characters. PTA's direction was masterful. Incredible long takes where both the dresses and acting take centre stage. The production design was flawless and captured 1950s London beautifully. It's...just outstanding. There was a moment I felt myself become unresponsive to reality. Hypnotised by the quality of film making, my eyes were entranced as if I was watching an artist making their masterpiece. This haunting beauty gets the first perfect rating of 2018.0 member like this review.
