There Will Be Blood
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Paul Dano, Dillon Freasier
Directed by: Paul Thomas Anderson
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
2007

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Oil man Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis) quickly becomes an oil tycoon. As he becomes more and more successful, he also becomes more ruthless.

Review:

Tim: This is one of those movies that features a show-stopping, memorable, classic performance that shines in its utter brilliance. The performance alone makes the movie a must-see. The movie itself isn't quite as good as it's star performance, but this still results in a great movie.

The real reason to watch Paul Thomas Anderson's There Will Be Blood is for the performance of Daniel Day-Lewis. His Daniel Plainview is a force on screen. You will be unable to tear your eyes off his performance. There are several scenes that are simply unforgettable. The "I've abandoned my child" scene is amazing. However, hands down, the greatest scene in the film has to be the concluding "I drink your milkshake" scene and the subsequent violence. This is simply harrowing to watch. Day-Lewis puts so much energy into this role that you will feel energized watching it. He is so good in the big, dramatic moments, but he is equally as good in the quieter moments. His "I have a competition in me" scene is a marvel for the level of restraint shown. Day-Lewis wholly deserved his Academy Award for Best Actor. He balances out the quiet, inner turmoil with loud, explosive violence. His performance is amazing.

Director Paul Thomas Anderson deserves credit for directing a beautiful (but harsh) film. The cinematography is breathtaking- and it won a much-deserved Academy Award. The movie is so stark and so amazing to watch. Anderson takes his time, never rushing- letting the movie roll out slowly. The film builds until its final, chilling scene.

There Will Be Blood is not a perfect movie. It is not even the best film of 2007. However, it is an instant classic that features one of the all-time greatest performances. I can't recommend this movie enough.



Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: No Country for Old Men, In the Name of the Father, My Left Foot, Gangs of New York