Review of There Will Be Blood (2007) by Seb M — 27 Mar 2013
Paul Thomas Anderson's 'There Will Be Blood' chronicles the rise and fall of Daniel Plainview (an incredible Daniel Day-Lewis) from middle-ground silverman to black-hearted oil tycoon. He moves from town to town with his son H.
W. (Dylan Freasier), the 'cute face' that assumes Plainview's title as a 'family man'. The film's conflict arrives in the form of Eli Sunday (Paul Dano), an evangelical preacher who operates with the same manipulations that Plainview practices.
Through this central conflict, we're provided with a rich subtext. Plainview's character represents the birth of capitalism in 20th century America, whilst Sunday's embodies the steady rise of organized religion.
The cold power of capitalism is represented in Plainview's solitude. In contrast, organized religion relies on the power of the people. Sunday is often surrounded by members of the church. He teaches them to extend 'God's work', in this case, the indoctrination of outsiders.
On top of its rich themes, Blood is an incredibly visceral piece of filmmaking. From Jonny Greenwood's discordant score, to the beautiful cinematography, to the incredibly detailed set and costume design, Blood is as layered and authentic as a classic novel.
There has been no filmmaker in the past 30 years who has captured a time in American history as vitally as Paul Thomas Anderson has in 'There Will Be Blood'. It feels like a lost classic from the 70's.
The character study and formal sophistication it offers viewers is unparalleled in modern cinema.
This review of There Will Be Blood (2007) was written by Seb M on 27 Mar 2013.
There Will Be Blood has generally received very positive reviews.
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