One of Daniel Day-Lewis’ most recent movies has been hailed by fans and critics alike. The film, released in 2017, has been dubbed both a “masterpiece” and “mesmerising”. Phantom Thread is a romantic period drama film written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Day-Lewis, alongside Vicky Krieps, and Lesley Manville.
The film’s synopsis reads: “Renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock and his sister Cyril are at the center of British fashion in 1950s London — dressing royalty, movie stars, heiresses, socialites and debutantes. Women come and go in Woodcock’s life, providing the confirmed bachelor with inspiration and companionship. His carefully tailored existence soon gets disrupted by Alma, a young and strong-willed woman who becomes his muse and lover.”
Phantom Thread has an impressive 91% rating from the critics of Rotten Tomatoes. Their consensus states: “Phantom Thread’s finely woven narrative is filled out nicely by humour, intoxicating romantic tension, and yet another impressively committed performance from Daniel Day-Lewis.”
Mark Kermode of The Observer awarded the film five stars and said: “I’ve seen Phantom Thread three times now, and each time I have been gripped ever tighter in its sublimely eerie and immaculately constructed web.”
Another critic wrote in their review: “Daniel Day-Lewis has turned in a measured, masterful performance of a flawed man who could be tender and kind, petulant and dismissive, and deeply hurtful. What a swan song.”
Phantom Thread placed 25th in The New York Times’ listing of Top 100 films of the 21st century.
One fan described the film as a “perfect masterpiece”, adding: “The first element of Phantom Thread that catches the eye is its unmatched beauty. Every single frame of this film is absolutely beautiful! This is, perhaps, the most unique love story that I’ve ever had the privilege of seeing. I adore Phantom Thread as it is one of my absolute favourite motion pictures of all time.”
Another added: “Astonishing and beautifully crafted, this film captivates from start to finish. The casting is pitch-perfect, with Daniel Day-Lewis delivering a mesmerising performance that pulls you deep into his intricate and layered character.”
Phantom Thread is available to stream on Amazon Prime.