“Phantom Thread” is an interesting look into the world of high fashion. I am not typically a fan of director Paul Thomas Anderson’s films but this one had me intrigued. The story is so well-conceived and detailed that it feels like Reynolds Woodcock would have to be a real, historical figure. But is the story true? Is it fantasy? Is it happy? Is it disturbing? It seems to be all of these things wrapped into one. Like many of Anderson’s films, it is a slow burn that builds tension so progressively that you don’t realize that it is there until it hits a breaking point. The story is unique but the film will always be remembered for legendary method actor Daniel Day-Lewis’ final performance. He brings his signature realism to the character with a brattish (yet sophisticated) stubbornness to reveal the main theme of the film: a relationship cannot function without compromise. He Though it isn’t his best performance, I’m okay with an Oscar nomination to commemorate the end of a long and fruitful career. On the other end of the spectrum, Leslie Manville’s nomination is perplexing. She didn’t really do anything in this movie. There was no explosive moment, memorable dialogue, or interesting character development. Vicky Krieps was significantly more impressive as Alma. For me, it will always be remembered for one of the most beautiful musical themes ever written. Jonny Greenwood has crafted an elegant impressionist theme that perfectly matches the setting and style of the film. It is almost as if he discovered a long-lost Debussy piano prelude and called it his own. The score’s sophistication goes beyond the main theme as it changes styles with each scene, from the beautiful impressionist piano opening to modern dissonance and beautiful Romantic strings. I am still picking Alexandre Desplat’s otherworldly score to “The Shape of Water” for the Oscar, but I believe Greenwood’s main theme to be superior. The film’s costume design is just as beautiful as its score and is a prime Oscar contender in this category with detailed dresses that enhance the essence of Woodcock. I didn’t love “Phantom Thread” but it is worth watching for the aspects that it does so well, particularly the beautiful score and costumes.
No comments:
Post a Comment