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10

metaknightmareDec 29, 2017

The film is beautifully done and is unique. It sticks in your mind long after you leave. It's funny, dark, romantic and haunting. Paul Thomas Anderson directs, writes and for the first time in a long time, handles the cinematography which heThe film is beautifully done and is unique. It sticks in your mind long after you leave. It's funny, dark, romantic and haunting. Paul Thomas Anderson directs, writes and for the first time in a long time, handles the cinematography which he deserves a nomination for, for the sake of recognition at least. A couple of years ago, I remember watching a Q&A of PTA and cast for Inherent Vice and a woman from the audience made a comment that PTA is "obsessed with masculinity" which he seemed shocked by. It seems that observation has somehow challenged him to do something more feminine. So he creates a film filled with women and only 3 main characters, two being women and one being an effeminate man who works on fashion and loves his mum. Now it is safe to say the film, like Daniel Day Lewis' character, is "obsessed with femininity" being romantic, filled with food and surrounded by attire. Obsession is even mentioned in Q&A and interviews for this film. Not sure if the comment was merely coincidence but I still feel even though this film can be grouped with the other ones he's made about irritated and intense men (The Master, TWBB, PDL), at least it explores and surrounds itself in a cocoon of gentleness which I believe has made PTA grow as a storyteller. It's also a bit strange even though not as much as Altman's 3 Women, it still has this appealing, indelible weirdness stuck to it. Surely will be looked back on as a masterpiece. I was lucky to see the film in 70mm and it was a great watch with a great audience. I hope you have a similar experience. Thanks for reading.… Expand

18 of 20 users found this helpful182

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10

WiscoJoeJan 21, 2018

A meticulously unfussy movie about some very fussy people. Wildly entertaining, deliriously unexpected, and profoundly funny. The upper crust formality, assisted by another sublime performance from Daniel Day Lewis, is subterfuge for a slowlyA meticulously unfussy movie about some very fussy people. Wildly entertaining, deliriously unexpected, and profoundly funny. The upper crust formality, assisted by another sublime performance from Daniel Day Lewis, is subterfuge for a slowly revealed joke about the contradiction of gender, the power of love and the cost/benefits of marriage, all leading to one hell of a punchline. This movie is like a perfectly executed standup routine delivered by the world's most unassuming comedian. I'll be laughing about this one for years to come. (Special shoutout to the already classic score by Jonny Greenwood. Like the rest of the film, it smartly highlights the wily humor by never acknowledging the film is a comedy. Everything is played straight, which only makes the central joke that much more hysterical and heartfelt.)… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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10

GinaKJan 22, 2018

Anybody still remember the frog rain in Magnolia? Critics wrote at the time that audience members either “go with it” and love it or don’t and hate it. It seems to me that Phantom Thread is a more accessible film than Magnolia, but you canAnybody still remember the frog rain in Magnolia? Critics wrote at the time that audience members either “go with it” and love it or don’t and hate it. It seems to me that Phantom Thread is a more accessible film than Magnolia, but you can still have the same problem with it as with the frog rain or perhaps any Paul Thomas Anderson film. I found Phantom Thread fascinating, and the acting splendid. It’s a film about greatness (in a minor art called fashion) and obsession, which may be what you need to be great in anything. It’s also about how people choose to live their lives – or maybe it’s not really a choice. It’s a fascinating film, and I enjoyed it.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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9

The3AcademySinsJan 17, 2018

Paul Thomas Anderson adds another masterpiece to his already stellar filmography. I had the privilege of getting to see Phantom Thread in 70mm, and if you can find a 70mm screening near you, I highly recommend that you go see it in 70mm. In aPaul Thomas Anderson adds another masterpiece to his already stellar filmography. I had the privilege of getting to see Phantom Thread in 70mm, and if you can find a 70mm screening near you, I highly recommend that you go see it in 70mm. In a year of amazing movies, Phantom Thread raises the bar. From a direction standpoint, everything is flawless. The acting is incredible, and Daniel Day Lewis and Vicky Krieps both completely disappear into their characters. The tension between the two leads is palpable, and I was on the edge of my seat the whole film. The costume design is stunning, and definitely one for the record books. Paul Thomas Anderson's script takes some huge risks that I really appreciated, and I never knew what was going to happen next. Every aspect of Phantom Thread is complex and deeply layered, and Paul Thomas Anderson truly went full Auteur for this film. This is not a film to be missed, and you'll probably have to watch it multiple times to catch all of the complexity and clues.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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5

stgrunuMar 29, 2018

The second most mediocre movie nominated to this year's Oscars, right behind Call Me By Your Name.

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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5

OdinsMovieBlogFeb 19, 2018

Overrated Oscar bait. Some solid lines and all around solid performances can't save this style over substance film. I am very sad if this is the last movie that Daniel Day-Lewis does in his career. He is usually so talented at picking hisOverrated Oscar bait. Some solid lines and all around solid performances can't save this style over substance film. I am very sad if this is the last movie that Daniel Day-Lewis does in his career. He is usually so talented at picking his projects, but the script for this film confuses and drags for far too long.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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7

moviemitch96Jan 20, 2018

Good news and bad news. Let me get the bad out of the way first and say that I found this to be director Paul Thomas Anderson's (whom I very much admire) weakest film to date. The good news is that Daniel Day-Lewis graces us with one moreGood news and bad news. Let me get the bad out of the way first and say that I found this to be director Paul Thomas Anderson's (whom I very much admire) weakest film to date. The good news is that Daniel Day-Lewis graces us with one more elegant and wonderful performance before he retires. Lesley Manville was also quite brilliant in her supporting turn alongside him. As for the rest of the film, the score and overall design of the film is quite a treat, but the story felt a bit uneven and really started to feel more and more aimless, especially towards the end. Overall, the film itself is good, but let's face it: If there's any reason to watch this film, it's for Day-Lewis' final bow onscreen, and he certainly doesn't disappoint.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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7

AxgrinderJan 21, 2018

Daniel Day Lewis is so good an actor that I find him to be totally believable in almost any role he immerses himself in. His portrayal of London dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock proves no exception. On the other hand, I found the whack ending toDaniel Day Lewis is so good an actor that I find him to be totally believable in almost any role he immerses himself in. His portrayal of London dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock proves no exception. On the other hand, I found the whack ending to this movie to be far from believable, and consequently insufficient to salvage a film that is most easily labeled as a long-winded character study.

The film is set is 1950’s London. It’s time in which social rank and class snobberies are still quite in vogue. Kudos to director Paul Thomas Anderson for his subtlety in this regard, and avoidance of a lot of overt explanations about the time, place and social class structure of the time, and leaving it to the viewer to figure out. Woodcock is portrayed as a man who is totally self-absorbed. His work is his life. He demands perfection out of everyone around him. He has zero capacity for indulging the needs or desires of others. His clients are European high-society and royalty, but he does not socialize with them. He has no friends; only the memory of his deceased mother to sustain him. It’s a life that appears to be full on the surface but, in fact, is mostly empty. It’s been reduced to a repeating cycle in which Woodcock works all hours of the day and night until he reaches the point of exhaustion. Once he recovers, he starts the cycle over again. The only time anyone can tell if he’s happy is when he is ordering a big breakfast.

Woodcock is not homosexual, but neither is he deeply physically or emotionally attracted to women. Instead, he is attracted to women who have a certain body type that meet his ideal standard for fitting into the dresses that he creates. When they later fail to meet up with his social and cultural standards (such as when they make too much noise while eating), he judges them inferior and becomes bored with them.

Alma is a waitress in a restaurant. Her accent gives her away as an immigrant. Here again, director Paul Thomas Anderson wisely avoids overtly calling attention to their different social statuses. Woodcock is attracted to her because shape. She’s flattered by his attention but thinks she can engage him on her terms, which succeeds only in annoying him. Woodcock begins to lose interest and mocks her but, for reasons that are unclear, doesn’t dismiss her. It is at this point that the movie begins to lose credibility. What she does to him next in retaliation is beyond forgivable but, bizarrely, Woodcock interprets her actions as true love. Beyond that, I cannot tell you more without spoiling the movie. Suffice it to say that the ending feels entirely out of character with the rest of the movie. To my mind, it’s vaguely reminiscent of Kathy Bates in Misery, and Isabella Rossellini in Blue Velvet.… Expand

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7

KeithDowJan 24, 2018

For any cinephile, going to the theater to see the latest Daniel Day-Lewis movie is considered mandatory viewing. The same goes for director Paul Thomas Anderson, who, like Day-Lewis, opts for quality over quantity by selectively releasing aFor any cinephile, going to the theater to see the latest Daniel Day-Lewis movie is considered mandatory viewing. The same goes for director Paul Thomas Anderson, who, like Day-Lewis, opts for quality over quantity by selectively releasing a piece of work once every 3 to 5 years. When combined, as they've done with 'Phantom Thread' (and the second such instance following 2007's 'There Will Be Blood'), the necessity in seeing the film is given an order of magnitude greater importance.

At best, 'Phantom Thread' stands to receive a polarizing reaction from viewers. It's a fine (I'd say perhaps even exemplary) film within the drilled-down genre of "English-set period-piece romantic dramas." However, when judged from a broader perspective, the film is simply far less captivating than either Day-Lewis' or Anderson's prior work, and the rather esoteric ending leaves audience members wishing the two had dedicated their respective time and effort to another pursuit.… Expand

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4

qMay 19, 2018

As I watched this weird, lumbering tale about eccentric, unlikeable characters inflicting on each other their psychological pathologies, I fell asleep twice and had to rewind for quite a while to find the last scene that looked as though IAs I watched this weird, lumbering tale about eccentric, unlikeable characters inflicting on each other their psychological pathologies, I fell asleep twice and had to rewind for quite a while to find the last scene that looked as though I had watched it before. I dutifully endured the seemingly interminable story of a sick romance between an insufferable twit who dresses up overprivileged but undistinguished women for a living and a ruthlessly manipulative former waitress who manages the herculean task of manifesting even more character flaws than the dressmaker whose life and career she threatens to destroy. All the while, I was thinking, "The critics are going to swoon over this self-consciously artsy-fartsy filmmaking bilge." The story features fictional people almost as personally dysfunctional as many film critics are in real life, and the movie has all of the pretentious high-art characteristics that fascinate filmmaking students in art colleges but are lost on normal moviegoers who are simply seeking an evening of pleasant entertainment. "Phantom Thread" evokes from viewers the same obligatory reaction a premiere performance of a commissioned work draws from a classical music audience on which it is inflicted: sufficient applause to avoid accusations of cretinism for failing to appreciate the finer things of life, accompanied by internal thanksgiving that it's over and that the long suffering audience will never have to experience it again.… Expand

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3

tkc88Jun 22, 2018

Paul Thomas Anderson films are the kind that you either love or passionately dislike.

I fall into the latter category (with the exception of The Master, which was a tightly made drama). While some of the cinematography is beautiful, thePaul Thomas Anderson films are the kind that you either love or passionately dislike.

I fall into the latter category (with the exception of The Master, which was a tightly made drama). While some of the cinematography is beautiful, the dialogue is painfully unrelatable and not written in a way that I have ever heard people speak in my lifetime. The performances hit the mark in that they achieve what PTA is going for, however the characters are not compelling enough for you to invest your time and/or emotion in to. There is no character arc to speak of; tired old themes of mother issues are forced down your throat with no actual pay off. The story never really progresses until the final two minutes, and by that time you're left wondering why you have invested two hours of your time watching these horrible, uninteresting people.… Expand

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10

AdrianmovieFeb 3, 2018

A fairytale of a movie from the Snow White dress to the prince in his kingdom to the witch who saves him. A fairy godmother, spells, forest, and a curse. If you love fairy tales you will love this movie!

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8

AscosporeApr 1, 2018

PTA is a fine filmmaker, but this isn't his most compelling work. The pacing and plot will get The Crown lovers frothing but I found it tedious at times. High marks, however, for usage of Greenwood's score, photography, performances andPTA is a fine filmmaker, but this isn't his most compelling work. The pacing and plot will get The Crown lovers frothing but I found it tedious at times. High marks, however, for usage of Greenwood's score, photography, performances and costume design.… Expand

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6

Lrs1215Mar 22, 2018

I enjoyed the individual characters' performances in this movie (and that's what saved it for me). However, the love story itself was very slow and actually quite strange.

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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1

mskdApr 27, 2018

I expected this movie to focus more on the glamour but there was no depth to the characters, only the appearance of depth. We never learned anything significant about them, but by the end I didn't care because their actions were pointless andI expected this movie to focus more on the glamour but there was no depth to the characters, only the appearance of depth. We never learned anything significant about them, but by the end I didn't care because their actions were pointless and empty, meant to impress the inexperienced. There is nothing interesting about selfish, ignoble, infantile characters no matter how beautiful the setting or strong the acting. At least there could have been a lesson, a point made, anything. Where are the dramas we used to love? Where is the soul? This was postmodernist garbage. Lazy, unimpressive writing. The glamorization of weak and ugly personalities with no redemption or lesson and no further point but to appeal to the vanity of the audience is becoming such a turn off this will probably be the last movie I watch for a long time.… Expand

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8

KanslerApr 7, 2018

A gloriously staged and brilliantly acted period drama which can feel languid, overdrawn and positively painful. I did not particularly enjoy the movie, but I can appreciate its sick beauty.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

BrianMcCriticJan 20, 2018

I had the pleasure of experiencing this film in a empty theater with no sound to be heard I was able to just sit back and enjoy Daniel Day-Lewis just immerse himself in the theater. Credit also goes to Vicky Krieps and Leslie Manville forI had the pleasure of experiencing this film in a empty theater with no sound to be heard I was able to just sit back and enjoy Daniel Day-Lewis just immerse himself in the theater. Credit also goes to Vicky Krieps and Leslie Manville for magnificent performances in their own right. Paul Thomas Anderson never seems to fail as he has developed a brilliant story with great scenes of dialogue that you can't take your eyes off of. Finally Jonny Greenwood's score is mesmerizing and one of the best of the year. A… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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3

2morovianJan 19, 2019

I was initially engaged and hopeful that this was going to be a good film, especially because Daniel Day Lewis was featured and the sets, landscapes and costumes were magnificent. But the film just loses tempo and breaks down due to itsI was initially engaged and hopeful that this was going to be a good film, especially because Daniel Day Lewis was featured and the sets, landscapes and costumes were magnificent. But the film just loses tempo and breaks down due to its uninspired meandering and an utterly bizarre left turn 3/4 of the way in, which essentially yanked the film out of the genre it was in and placed it, unbelievably, in another...as if the writers just ran out of ideas as to how to conclude and just grasped at something as the clock was ticking towards a deadline.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

mrdr4gonFeb 12, 2018

Suffers from some awkward setup moments early on, with some strange character interactions that fall flat. Nonetheless Phantom Thread more than makes up for these defects by being a beautifully shot film with some fantastically subtleSuffers from some awkward setup moments early on, with some strange character interactions that fall flat. Nonetheless Phantom Thread more than makes up for these defects by being a beautifully shot film with some fantastically subtle performances. Well worth a watch for having a rich aesthetic that harkens back to old Hollywood and of course, for Daniel Day Lewis's final performance.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

annbdApr 22, 2018

The movie shows true love. True love beyond cliche view, strange to perception, invisible and complicated. Movie with a stunning acting. I must admit, it was boring on moments, but there is a big beautiful idea behind it.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

zapVFeb 25, 2018

This time PTA examines an unhealthy relationship between an artist and his muse. The whole movie is like a psychological dance between two main characters where they are exploring the boundaries and hidden desires of each other. While it isThis time PTA examines an unhealthy relationship between an artist and his muse. The whole movie is like a psychological dance between two main characters where they are exploring the boundaries and hidden desires of each other. While it is meticulously directed, beautifully shot and well acted, sometimes actions and motivations of characters left me absolutely confused.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

MahmusSep 25, 2020

A beautifully made movie that gets really dark and messed up.

Full of gorgeous cinematography, music and excellent performances from Daniel Day-Lewis, Vicky Krieps and Lesley Manville.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

DSinghJan 5, 2018

Masterclass in directing by Paul Thomas Anderson. Best Picture of 2017 by the the best Director of the 21st century.

6 of 7 users found this helpful61

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3

SadiePFeb 7, 2018

It is amazing to read the reviews & the difference of opinion! We were VERY disappointed, thought the film was slow, boring, stupid and couldn't wait for it to be over. Someone clapped in the theater at the end & I heard another say, "theyIt is amazing to read the reviews & the difference of opinion! We were VERY disappointed, thought the film was slow, boring, stupid and couldn't wait for it to be over. Someone clapped in the theater at the end & I heard another say, "they are clapping because it is finally over!" Woodcock & his love Elma were a very dysfunctional mismatched couple (age & temperament) & Woodcock was pretentious, self-indulgent, spoiled - actually a little crazy. Daniel Day Lewis was indeed super in his performance, along with the sets & costuming, (though we really were not impressed with HIS dress designs as a whole) all sets & scenery were well done for the time period presented. Woodcock's sister, Cyril, was his stability & caretaker - we liked her. I can understand the Oscar nomination for Lewis but no way, no how is this film worthy of a best picture award!… Expand

6 of 7 users found this helpful61

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7

BHBarryDec 29, 2017

Phantom Thread" stars Daniel Day-Lewis and Vicky Krieps in this mysery/romance set in London in the 1950's as it delves deeply into the art of dressmaking and those who master the craft. Written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the film,Phantom Thread" stars Daniel Day-Lewis and Vicky Krieps in this mysery/romance set in London in the 1950's as it delves deeply into the art of dressmaking and those who master the craft. Written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the film, although shown in the super medium of 70mm and color, was, in my memory, an average black and white film. The plot is rather thin and the movie is much too long. When something is dull, even 10 minutes can seem like a lifetime so 2 hours and 20 minutes really accentuates the discomfort. Notwithstanding absolutely rave reviews from the professionals, I found this film to be an effort to watch and endure even with outstanding performances by Mr. Day-Held and Ms. Krieps. I give the film 7.0 with the "phantom" in the title representing the mysterious movie that was apparently seen by the critics but not by me.… Expand

5 of 6 users found this helpful51

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2

psyberdelicApr 13, 2018

I'll give it a couple of points on the look of the film. But... I found it boring and not at all engaging. What a bunch of upper-crusty jerks. Skipped from scene to scene and don't think I missed a thing. Not worth the time and I got itI'll give it a couple of points on the look of the film. But... I found it boring and not at all engaging. What a bunch of upper-crusty jerks. Skipped from scene to scene and don't think I missed a thing. Not worth the time and I got it for free.… Expand

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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1

ourtimehascomeMay 8, 2018

Overrated and passionless, Phantom Thread is boring Oscar bait. Greenwood's soundtrack is fantastic. But the story is trite, and the characters uninteresting. Anderson's worst film to date.

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4

tomo1682Apr 30, 2018

Great acting. Completely boring story. Simply did not care about any of the characters. I obviously didn't get it.

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10

Tcurran2Jan 20, 2018

If Phantom Thread's only purpose was to serve as Daniel Day-Lewis's swan song, that'd be more than enough to justify its existence. Luckily, Phantom Thread manages to be much more than that. Shot with spherical lenses, Paul Thomas Anderson'sIf Phantom Thread's only purpose was to serve as Daniel Day-Lewis's swan song, that'd be more than enough to justify its existence. Luckily, Phantom Thread manages to be much more than that. Shot with spherical lenses, Paul Thomas Anderson's film hearkens back to an era of film-making of decades past. The muted color scheme manages to draw attention to itself, though not in a gratuitous manner. It goes without saying that the film's set design and costuming is breathtakingly beautiful. That is not to say however, that Phantom Thread serves as a mere technical spectacle alone. The composition of each frame is so meticulously designed, that is starts to burrow into one's mind far after the credits roll. Day-Lewis delivers a performance for the ages, in a role that would be a lifetime achievement in acting excellence for any other actor. The role is Reynolds Woodcock, an enigmatic fashion designer whose intense attention to detail is matched only by his austere nature. Having a Freudian obsession with his deceased mother, the perennial bachelor meets Alma (Vicky Krieps), a waitress at a hotel he dines at early in the film, whom he takes in as a model to pose for his dresses (The dresses themselves have an odd sort of aesthetic functionality to them. They elevate the wearer in a mental sense, giving them a regal authority in the way they carry themselves). Alma's presence is both welcome to the distant designer, and an intrusion of his work process. However, to simply summarize the film's plot points would do it a great disservice. Johnny Greenwood's continuing collaboration with Anderson has yet again proven fruitful. With its haunting strings, and melodic piano tones, the score is deeply immersive, and enriching. Day-Lewis doesn't take on characters, he hurtles himself at them, inhabiting their every idiosyncrasy to ludicrous detail. Anderson lets the camera roll, and Day-Lewis takes over. One imagines that Day-Lewis will be hoisting up that golden trophy come March, but it'd be an all too paltry of a recognition, given the work he's done here.… Expand

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1

CorregatedFeb 12, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The showing I saw had a preview for the latest 50 Shades of Grey. Phantom Threads is like 50 Shades for the NPR crowd. Distasteful characters find twisted love through rudeness and brutality amidst opulent surroundings. At least 50 Shades seems to have a handsome man in it. I rewatched the misleading preview, which contained the few romantic scenes but none of the misery. If film makers want to create such depressing pieces, at least they should warn us.… Expand

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9

LamontRaymondDec 25, 2017

I walked into this movie having NO idea what to expect. I was fired up when the theater person told us it was in 70MM, and boy, is it beautiful in that format. This truly is one of the best movies of the year, and that's coming from a guyI walked into this movie having NO idea what to expect. I was fired up when the theater person told us it was in 70MM, and boy, is it beautiful in that format. This truly is one of the best movies of the year, and that's coming from a guy who was terribly bored and disappointed by The Master. Lewis and his female lead, along with the actress who plays his sister, are incredibly good in this film. The story takes some turns that you'd never expect and that I won't spoil. Kudos to Anderson and his creative team - impeccably shot and executed.… Expand

7 of 9 users found this helpful72

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9

StevieGJDJan 8, 2018

What a beautiful film. While this will not be everybody's cup of tea, I loved it. Daniel Day-Lewis serves up another great performance: a fully realized, and exceptionally bizarre, artistic dress designer. There were so many quirkyWhat a beautiful film. While this will not be everybody's cup of tea, I loved it. Daniel Day-Lewis serves up another great performance: a fully realized, and exceptionally bizarre, artistic dress designer. There were so many quirky moments that cracked me up. But I also noticed some people in the theater that did not get it. This movie also looks so perfect. It feels like England in the 1950s. My wife and mother (both of whom I took to see this) were in love with the dresses. This movie is a lock to win the Academy Award for best costumes. The narrative goes in a direction that I did not anticipate. But that made it fun too. The acting is superb, as is the direction by Paul Thomas Anderson. I am truly sorry for those who don't get it, you missed something special. But I expect there are a number of things those folks don't get.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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8

TVJerryJan 19, 2018

Daniel Day-Lewis (in reportedly his last film) plays a celebrated dressmaker in 50s London who runs his design house and his personal home with a meticulous, measured style. However, this isn't about fashion. Although that's the rarifiedDaniel Day-Lewis (in reportedly his last film) plays a celebrated dressmaker in 50s London who runs his design house and his personal home with a meticulous, measured style. However, this isn't about fashion. Although that's the rarified world this film inhabits, it quickly becomes an strained and strange love story. A young woman from a different background (Vicky Krieps) becomes his muse, but their relationship turns twisted. There is a peek into the creative process and some lovely clothes, but this is much more a look at a fastidious man and the passion that disrupts his routine. Filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson has beautifully created an elegant world and allowed the actors to underplay their best. This unique experience is quietly elegant, essentially subdued and ultimately strange.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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5

imthenoobJan 25, 2018

Maybe my expectations were way too high but I was really disappointed with this movie. Not much really happened plot-wise and with a run time of over 2 hours, It's pretty difficult to sit through. I honestly busted out my phone and wasMaybe my expectations were way too high but I was really disappointed with this movie. Not much really happened plot-wise and with a run time of over 2 hours, It's pretty difficult to sit through. I honestly busted out my phone and was web-browsing for a good 20 minutes or so of this film. There was another guy in the audience who actually fell asleep and his snores held my attention more than this film.

It's such a massive waste of talent. Daniel Day-Lewis is my favourite actor of all time and to give him this kind of send-off is such a disappointment to me. Especially when he thrives off such unique, story-driven character role.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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9

Rebecca31Feb 6, 2018

Beautiful to watch, beautiful to listen to and the acting is superb. Phantom Thread did not go the way I expected and although it took me a while to like it, the story eventually reeled me in and I became immersed in this captivating film.Beautiful to watch, beautiful to listen to and the acting is superb. Phantom Thread did not go the way I expected and although it took me a while to like it, the story eventually reeled me in and I became immersed in this captivating film. Not my usual kind of movie but it's Oscar season and apparently the last you'll see Daniel Day-Lewis in a movie. He's retired again so don't all gasp at once.

Daniel Day-Lewis is the renowned dress-maker Reynolds Woodcock. Living in 1950s London, his routine life takes a change when he meets his new muse, a young woman named Alma (Vicky Krieps) yet his highly organised bachelor life is soon disrupted by Alma. We've had a couple of films this year that decide to take a weird turn in the third act and Phantom Thread certainly went off in an unexpected direction. Not your typical love story. Day-Lewis does it again, giving another brilliant performance. Perfect casting, the chemistry between Day-Lewis and Vicky Krieps was exceptional. This one is definitely a slow burner so let yourselves become engrossed in the elegance of Phantom Thread. The level of care in every single shot is mesmerizing, from the cinematography, the lavish dresses and the spectacular score by Jonny Greenwood. There's no denying Day-Lewis' performance is perfect and I expect nothing less to be honest. Yet what stood out the most for me was the haunting soundtrack. Absolutely stunning, one of the best film scores in recent years and well deserving of an Oscar. Highly recommended for all you Daniel Day-Lewis/Paul Thomas Anderson fans out there.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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0

peteowen1Feb 13, 2018

Poorly written characters, weak story-line. Boring, pretentious and a waste of 2 hours.

7 of 11 users found this helpful74

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4

Brent_MarchantJan 14, 2018

Despite exquisite costume design, some occasionally humorous moments, and fine performances by Daniel Day-Lewis and Lesley Manville, this exercise in pretentious self-indulgence passing itself off as audacious art is cold, unengaging andDespite exquisite costume design, some occasionally humorous moments, and fine performances by Daniel Day-Lewis and Lesley Manville, this exercise in pretentious self-indulgence passing itself off as audacious art is cold, unengaging and implausible virtually from the outset. This bizarre fusion of "Fifty Shades of Grey," "The Devil Wears Prada" and "The Beguiled" never gels and leaves viewers wholly unsatisfied by the end of its overlong runtime. It's unfortunate that Day-Lewis chose this vehicle as the performance to cap off his otherwise-brilliant career.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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6

BeeceeJan 21, 2018

Daniel Day-Lewis does an excellent acting job, as usual, and the sets and costumes are gorgeous. That said, the movie is a study on the relationship between the fashion designer, Reynolds Woodcock, and the two women in his life. It isDaniel Day-Lewis does an excellent acting job, as usual, and the sets and costumes are gorgeous. That said, the movie is a study on the relationship between the fashion designer, Reynolds Woodcock, and the two women in his life. It is generally slow moving, and all three main characters are very unpleasant - not the kind of people one would ever want to encounter. The relationship between Cyril and Woodcock initially remains ambiguous, to the detriment of understanding the movie. I would also agree that there is a strong and unpleasant thread of sadomasochism in the relationship between Alma and Woodcock, although there is no physical violence.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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0

SebastianGarciaMar 3, 2018

Poorly written characters, weak story-line. Boring, pretentious and a waste of 2 hours

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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10

katezoeJan 21, 2018

One of the best movies 2017! Magnificent! The director Paul Thomas Anderson is a genius. The entire cast is pitch perfect. Art direction and costumes are sublime.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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8

yahya123Jan 5, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. i love the movie from my heart its wonderful it number 5555555555555555555555555555555555555… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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3

hellacriticalFeb 17, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This film could easily be misconstrued as a comedy. The lines were so stiff and unnatural that they became humorous. There is also way too much staring. I'm pretty sure about an hour and 5 minutes of the movie could have been shaved off if the characters just stopped staring at each other and pausing before they spoke. Don't get me wrong, that can be sometimes powerful, but it was not at all utilized correctly in this film. It doesn't work when literally every character does it.

The whole film is a demonstration of insanely toxic masculinity. For some reason, Vicky Krieps' character, Alma, finds this insanely attractive. It isn't until she meets Daniel Day-Lewis' character that she starts to feel good about herself. It's insanely offensive, and she is definitely no one's feminist role model. The fact that people are calling this a "love story" is disgusting.

None of the characters were likable so I found the whole thing quite boring. It is difficult to pinpoint what parts I hated exactly, because they were all equally forgettable. Paul Thomas Anderson's characters had no personalities whatsoever. They were "quirky" and "strange," but that's not a personality.

I understand that this is supposed to be a haunting, semi-psychopathic film, but the way to really make that work is to make it as close to real-life as possible. Making it seem like it could happen in real life makes it truly scary. However, this did not seem like real life to me, because everything was just so flat. The dialogue was unnatural and disappointing.

The two reasons that I'm giving this even a 3 is because the cinematography and the costume design was beautiful. I really wish that more was done with the clothing aspect. The story had so much potential, and I kept thinking of ways that the movie could have been so much better, but alas, PTA did not take that route.

Overall, incredibly disappointing. Because of the poor quality of this film, I hope this isn't actually Daniel Day-Lewis' final film, for his sake.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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6

netflicFeb 12, 2018

A story of a high fashion dress designer and a model he was looking for.
The latest film by Paul Thomas Anderson (aka PTA), film director famous for "Magnolia", "There Will Be Blood", and many others.
There is beautiful scenery here (not muchA story of a high fashion dress designer and a model he was looking for.
The latest film by Paul Thomas Anderson (aka PTA), film director famous for "Magnolia", "There Will Be Blood", and many others.
There is beautiful scenery here (not much of it though), gorgeous dresses, outstanding performance from leads, great casting, meticulous details.
On the other hand, dragging, slow, boring plot. It is not unusual for Anderson to dive into psychics of obsessive, troubled psychopaths but this movie left me cold as stone. Too many threads are left untied.
The film pretends to be artsy but rather weird. A weird film about weird people. If it is a love story, that love has to be taken into quotes.
I would give this film many technical Oscar nominations but definitely not the best feature.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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0

zedzdedFeb 15, 2019

I love Anderson, I love Day Lewis but zzzzz oh god what a snooze fest. Maybe it’s cause I find fashion so intrinsically uninteresting that when it’s on a pedestal as an art form I want to sleep...

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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3

gxm143Apr 13, 2018

I'd been looking forward to this film but for me it was the prototypical critical darling that sucks. Very strange, quite boring plot. DD Lewis is great as always, but I wish he wasn't attracted to this director (I didn't like There Will BeI'd been looking forward to this film but for me it was the prototypical critical darling that sucks. Very strange, quite boring plot. DD Lewis is great as always, but I wish he wasn't attracted to this director (I didn't like There Will Be Blood either). The plot resolution is not believable, nor did I care for the fate of the extremely unlikable characters. My wife was even disappointed with the fashion / creativity element she had anticipated enjoying. There is no background to the characters, so it is hard to know or sympathize with them. Even the soundtrack is irritating. I have seen 8 of 9 2017 best pic nominees (all but CMBYN) and this movie did not deserve to be in that class, imo.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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8

robbywarren93Jan 24, 2018

A beautifully made, masterfully scored, gorgeously shot, and outstandingly performed new effort from one of the greats, Paul Thomas Anderson. Daniel Dey Lewis gives an excellent performance, one that would be a great last if what's been said is true.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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10

SarahCCMar 2, 2018

Sent from SarahCC

The beauty resides in every intimate detail shown with restraint and generosity, fine china and cookware....as well as displays of naturally arranged flowers, black/white marble, gorgeous wallpapers, elegant silk floorSent from SarahCC

The beauty resides in every intimate detail shown with restraint and generosity, fine china and cookware....as well as displays of naturally arranged flowers, black/white marble, gorgeous wallpapers, elegant silk floor length curtains, pleated flowery bedroom ones: sensual and industrial, grooming and stitching like time and fabric unfolding, the posturing and impulsivity, models holding up the back and shoulders like ballerinas, blushing cheeks, assertive tea serving and slicing of butter..
the mannerly and voyeuristic way he observes and seizes.
beauty. One can see how the minutes of the day tick away the same focus to detail and precision as his design and dressing, and the relief and reprieve from it requiring a collapse and relapse...I loved his dark hair, the sister’s blue eyed turning steel-like looks, the staircase with its ascensions/descensions, just enough music, just enough wallpaper
the lavender colors, the country house with simple beds and pots and pans.... Even the asparagus is beautiful!… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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3

204953aniticaJan 19, 2018

Phantom Thread is an extremely slow film. I couldn't wait until it finished. The movie is as confusing as Daniel Day-Lewis character in the film. There is no question that Lewis performed beautifully but the movie had too many unasweredPhantom Thread is an extremely slow film. I couldn't wait until it finished. The movie is as confusing as Daniel Day-Lewis character in the film. There is no question that Lewis performed beautifully but the movie had too many unaswered questions so you left the theater in a limbo state. I wouldn't recommend this film. Wait till it comes to Netflick.… Expand

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

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0

SID15762Apr 2, 2018

one of the worst film i have ever seen....simply waste of my time........................................................................................

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

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5

Odin777Feb 17, 2018

Overrated Oscar bait. Some solid lines and all around solid performances can't save this style over substance film.

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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10

DrBlahBlahJan 9, 2018

Another masterpiece from P.T. Anderson, marred only by its slightly crazy ending, which works in its own way, but departs from the tone and texture of what preceded it. Daniel Day-Lewis delivers perhaps his most subtle (and effective)Another masterpiece from P.T. Anderson, marred only by its slightly crazy ending, which works in its own way, but departs from the tone and texture of what preceded it. Daniel Day-Lewis delivers perhaps his most subtle (and effective) performance to date, 90 percent of which is driven by his mysterious, magnetic eyes.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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3

The4thBillboardJan 27, 2018

I have seen all of the movies up for the Oscar best picture and they were all great....except for this one. It's the type of movie that takes 4 years of brainwashing at film school to make you think you enjoy it. First 30 minutes were notI have seen all of the movies up for the Oscar best picture and they were all great....except for this one. It's the type of movie that takes 4 years of brainwashing at film school to make you think you enjoy it. First 30 minutes were not bad but it has about 45 minutes of good material and a lot of boring filler. I have seen a lot of artsy movies that I have really enjoyed and wanted to like this one but I just can't.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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0

bentearwalkingFeb 24, 2018

people who like this movie are as rich as they are stupid. it gives off that posh sense of "oh you wouldn't understand it unless you are high fashion" waste of time. amazed that daniel day can appear so different in each movie, amazed at thepeople who like this movie are as rich as they are stupid. it gives off that posh sense of "oh you wouldn't understand it unless you are high fashion" waste of time. amazed that daniel day can appear so different in each movie, amazed at the great music from jonny greenwood, appalled by this dry and boring waste of life plot with a poop ending. borrrrrring.… Expand

4 of 12 users found this helpful48

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6

TrevorsViewFeb 1, 2018

Paul Thomas Anderson’s instant classics, There Will be Blood and Boogie Nights, gained well-deserved attention alright, yet his other acclaimed works, including Inherent Vice and Punch-Drunk Love are less noticed by the public. It’sPaul Thomas Anderson’s instant classics, There Will be Blood and Boogie Nights, gained well-deserved attention alright, yet his other acclaimed works, including Inherent Vice and Punch-Drunk Love are less noticed by the public. It’s understandable; I particularly found it hard to care about the bond between the main couple in Anderson’s newest project, Phantom Thread. Though one can still greatly appreciate the artistry created here to depict desire above devotion beneath fashion’s puppet strings.

Several scenes express the same meticulous directorial attention of stitching a hem, so much so that even a mundane scene such as spreading butter on toast stresses the senses. Anderson’s vigilant craft demonstrates the sly nature of his first-hand man, Daniel-Day Lewis, through the quietest actions. Day-Lewis’s seamstress role feels he never was meant to marry, perhaps influenced by London’s fashion scene, although his inner conviction seems challenged once the dialogue between his new concubine arouses a need to restrict another's lust.

The visual cues suggest the look of a live stark-white studio photoshoot under diffused harsh lights to evoke heated passion, a sensation mellowed out by a gentle, warm fireplace glow until the cold breakfast table counteracts the calmness. Soon later into the runtime, snow graces its presence, completing the emotional glide along the film’s distressed ribbon. The supposed visual flaws in the ugly wallpaper heightened by the high ISO setting simply add to the visual flavor, making the whole sum of its parts reflect the era.

Again, the fashions really tell the story; the costumes designed by Mark Bridges (The Artist, Inherent Vice) rock to the wind of the citizens’ visualized longings, the wardrobes’ shapes and tones either emphasizing the female form for lust or simplifying the appearance for true love.

Beyond the visual elements, the musical score by Jonny Greenwood (Inherent Vice, There Will be Blood) orchestrates the beauty of the piano and the haunt of the strings to anticipate danger in the room based on the level of voluptuous nature. It almost seems like the crypt threaded Greenwood’s tones to trigger your own cravings by ringing your ears until they turn a deep crimson hue.

Each character’s realized past comes from whatever they could or could not control including the seamstress’s new concubine, who is introduced by saying she gave every piece of herself as he forced her to work on only four hours of sleep. Meanwhile, the seamstress’s house servant, played by one of this year’s Oscar nominees, Lesley Manville, sustains a delicate eye to keep our attention toward the subjects of managed focus in the home.

However, one critical problem damages the overall production: it seldom comments on present day issues, instead exploiting the time to show off pretty European clothes. The full reality of lustful men at the time gets the boot, both in comparing it to the women they took advantage of alongside how it links back with today.

Phantom Thread thus should be expected to fall out of public memory because it uses an autocratic political stand in service of the Oscars it thinks it deserves. Forget aiming to please multiple generations with a compassionate story anyone can see themselves in, it only has its sights on the temporary 90th Annual Academy Awards with its all-White setup in mind, since Paul Thomas Anderson clearly knows deep down that the voters fancy prestigious British motion pictures.

Consequently, Phantom Thread romanticizes two selfish leads, turning out an orgasmic experience rather than a compassionate one. So, in regard to the Weinstein scandals plaguing Hollywood right now, Phantom Thread does more harm than good. Think back to Fifty Shades of Grey, the unhealthy relationship depicted in Phantom Thread perfectly recreates those torturous sex games, except in a classier fashion. Why then exactly did this score a Best Picture nomination while James Franco, a recent actor accused of sexual misconduct, got snubbed a nomination? It makes no sense.

Hopefully, after time dissipates, one can enjoy Phantom Thread’s artistry. Hopefully, after a decade or two, this movie won’t scream, “Oscar-bait,” but be appreciated for how the well-staged tension gives a strong sample of the direction from the brilliant Mr. Paul Thomas Anderson.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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2

AxeTJan 21, 2018

From one of the most over-rated hack sham writer directors of the last twenty years that jackass critics and industry fools continue to praise showing their utter pretentious idiocy this delivers exactly what was expected: pure selfFrom one of the most over-rated hack sham writer directors of the last twenty years that jackass critics and industry fools continue to praise showing their utter pretentious idiocy this delivers exactly what was expected: pure self indulgent pretentious nonsense devoid of narrative craft, artistic flair, and anything remotely resembling entertainment (good movies and all art entertains no matter the content). While it does get some chuckles from Daniel Day Lewis's formed character and delivery of some admittedly funny audacious dialogue he still should be embarrassed to have this pretentious fraud of a movie stand as his last before retirement.

* note: I do not generally pay to see these award contenders (what a joke) since my access is free. I saw a 35mm film presentation of this which along with his preferred 70mm is the luddite director's pretentious carnival barker hoax of exhibition medium and it looked awful and was at unarguably less than half the resolution of current digital projection standards, like watching an old beat up film in the early seventies not in the great aesthetic sense of that period but in the deficient inferior movie theater technology of those times compared to now. Pretentious is the word.… Expand

7 of 28 users found this helpful721

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3

GreatMartinJan 23, 2018

Being this is, supposedly, Daniel Day-Lewis’s last movie before he retires I wish he had retired after doing “Lincoln” and winning an Oscar, though he is retiring with an Oscar nomination for his role as Reynolds Jeremiah Woodcock.

WoodcockBeing this is, supposedly, Daniel Day-Lewis’s last movie before he retires I wish he had retired after doing “Lincoln” and winning an Oscar, though he is retiring with an Oscar nomination for his role as Reynolds Jeremiah Woodcock.

Woodcock is at the center of British fashion dressing royalty, movie stars, rich women and socialites with the House of Woodstock along with his sister Cyril (Lesley Manville) who manages the business and, to a certain extent, him. He is, and seems to boast about it, a confirmed bachelor and has women coming into his life and his sister getting rid of them when he is tired of them.

Taking a break he goes to his out of town cottage and in a restaurant, he meets a clumsy waitress, Alma, played by Vicky Krieps, starts dating her and she becomes his muse, lover and then wife. His falling in love with her disrupts his life and his work. As Cyril tells Alma her brother likes quiet in the morning, especially at breakfast, and she is noisy such as scraping and cutting her toast, noisily pouring her tea and stirring her spoon just for starters.

Soon he is using all this ‘noise’ as excuses to end what they have and looking at his sister to do her job which is to send Alma away but then he gets sick and she takes care of him only endearing her to him.

At that point, I lost it. I lost what was going on. I lost interest in the film and Daniel Day-Lewis and the two women and the fashions but, also, where it was going if it was going anywhere.

When I got home I read three rave reviews to see what I had missed and one reviewer referred to Hitchcock’s “Rebecca”, another to Gene Tierney in “Dragonwyck” while another mentioned films made in the 1940s and 1950s and I could understand those references. The film starts with the song “My Foolish Heart” from the 1950 movie starring Susan Hayward and Dana Andrews, which was a favorite of mine and I wish I had seen that instead of “Phantom Thread” which takes place in the 1950s probably the reason for the song.

For the record it was announced today that “Phantom Thread” received the following Oscar nominations: 1) Best Picture 2) Best Actor 3) Best Director Paul Thomas Anderson 4) Best Supporting Actress Lesley Manville 5) Best Costume Design Mark Bridges and 6) original score Johnny Greenwind.… Expand

2 of 8 users found this helpful26

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10

MattBrady99Feb 26, 2018

“Never cursed”

‘Phantom Thread ’ might be the best film I think I have ever seen. Superb in every sense of the word. It's up there with ‘There Will Be Blood’. For the last couple of days after I watched the film, there was something about it“Never cursed”

‘Phantom Thread ’ might be the best film I think I have ever seen. Superb in every sense of the word. It's up there with ‘There Will Be Blood’. For the last couple of days after I watched the film, there was something about it that transcended me into a spell. It felt like a dream. An extraordinary incident was watching this a second time in one week, which is something I rarely do. Better on the second watch, if I must say. Gripped ever tighter in it’s sinister approach to love.

What could've been so boring with its subject matter of the fashion world, something I’m not personally interested in, but made it so fascinating. If you watched the trailer and think you know how things are gonna play out, you’re dead wrong.

Paul Thomas Anderson is one of my favorite directors working today and every movie he makes, just like Scorsese, I'm there. While the film making in the movie isn't anything striking, but didn't need to be. Not to say there wasn't any perfectly framed shots. The way he films cars driving was unique. There's a shot in the movie that's taken right out of ‘A Clockwork of Orange’. This guy can make movies like ‘Boogie Nights (1997)’ - A drug rush of funky disco in 1970’s California. Then makes ‘There Will Be Blood (2007)’ - A slow pace horror movie about oil drilling. And now ‘Phantom Thread (2017)’ - The most British thing ever, set in the 1950’s about fashion with shocking parallels to Hitchcock. Are you beginning to see a pattern here - The mighty 7’s.

Daniel-Day Lewis was absolutely fantastic in this movie - Yeah, what’s new. Of course this needs repeating, because he’s wonderful as the picky prick Reynolds Woodcock. What makes him so enthralling to watch is his special ability to embody his characters down to the smallest details. Sometimes during the film, you get close up of his worn out fingers after touching fabric and you immediately know it’s real. To prepare for the role, Day-Lewis actually made a balenciaga dress from scratch. This guy is a mad genius. Without any words spoken, his reaction when people make eat too loud or irritating little noises are hilarious. If it’s true about his retirement from acting, then he picked a great way to go out. He will be missed.

A standout performance from Vicky Krieps, who plays Alma, the woman Reynolds falls for. Krieps deserves more praise for her powerful performance, as she holds her own against Day-Lewis. Both having great chemistry that’s so sweet and yet messed up. I hope we see more of her in the future.

Lesley Manville plays Cyril, the cold silent type who sniffs out trouble in The House of Woodcock. She serves as a helping hand to Reynolds during difficult times, since both are siblings. Another surprise standout who also goes head to head with Day-Lewis and has some of the funniest lines in the movie. Her Oscar nomination was deserved.

Jonny Greenwood’s score is heaven to my ears. Listening to it feels like a warm blanket wrapped around me. One of the best things I've heard in quite a while.

And of course with it being fashion, the costumes and production designs are all terrific. Mark Bridges and Mark Tildesley crafted an astonishing piece of art that breathes life on to the screen.

Something that doesn't get enough praise is the sound design. Really detailed with every door slam, movement of plates and cutlery, needles going through thread, and crust from bread.

This plays out more like a Brother’s Grimm story than a romance. Characters constantly talk about curses, superstitions and the afterlife. Brides not touching wedding dresses as fear they will never get married. Sewing hidden messages within any fabric. Reynolds sewn a piece of his deceased mother hair into the canvas of his coat, keeping her close to his heart. The story about dressmaking and the artist was never the main focus, but something more ghostly. This refers to an irresistible motion of repeating sewing until the fingers get weary, even through their work are already done. Hence the title “Phantom Thread ”.

Overall Rating: A classic chic.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

aussiedude98May 19, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Amazing acting performances, and overall an interesting film; for me let down by the ending. Fantastic cinematography and art design.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

spencieMar 15, 2018

What a movie, Paul Thomas Anderson is a hell of a director. This is one of the most unique films of the year, it's masterfully written and takes you by surprise. It's oddly funny and has pitch perfect performances by a great cast. This is a must-see.

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9

VancomycinFeb 10, 2018

It's been weeks now and I still think of this film when I make myself breakfast.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

PipeCMay 6, 2018

Shockingly exquisite and overwhelming piece of art crafted by high-fashion maestros. His newest piece of art, which aspired to six Oscars without any surprises, wickedly slips through the 1950's day-to-day characters of Daniel Day-Lewis,Shockingly exquisite and overwhelming piece of art crafted by high-fashion maestros. His newest piece of art, which aspired to six Oscars without any surprises, wickedly slips through the 1950's day-to-day characters of Daniel Day-Lewis, Vicky Krieps, and Lesley Manville: a close-minded designer, his faithful and inseparable sister-assistant and his new wife and muse. What the director and screenwriter — two in one — communicates through the aesthetics of his storytelling comprises more than a mind can get caught in one fell swoop, as it displays a dazzling commentary about loving relationships and how they can destroy each other or construct each other. As expected, the only thing our characters will swim against the tide, creating an inhabitable environment where subjugation, confrontations, and madness build a fatality barrier. The story never gets caught in muddy matters as giving a vengeful and righteous attitude to the unsubmissive lady, giving her a voice to express what goes through her mind, to express how the relationship is getting her to fly off the handle and in the end, inexplicably, how it manages to transform her. It's time to say goodbye, Daniel Day-Lewis has bestowed one of the most forceful, intoxicating and electrifying interpretations of his career for his fervent followers, the definitive show of one of the real egregious artists of the last century. Well-spoken Woodcock is who concludes his filmography, the designer by which the British actor had to undergo a hard preparation process in order to portray with honesty and truthfulness the unspoken pain and personal demand of a man who can only fall in love with his threads. It was a huge surprise to hear about the nomination the Academy gave Lesley Manville thanks to her role as the nosy and demurely envious Cyril, a character that, although is important for the development of the central conflict and shows the unspeakable talent of the actress, never gets to stay the necessary time on screen to justify tremendous recognition. Perhaps, the truly inexplicable thing is that, even if she performs a restrained and applaudable work, the real laurels and props should go to Vicky Krieps, because it's such the scope of her interpretation that the scenes in which both ladies share screen are pure fire. Turning to the matter in hand, Krieps is the absolute femme-fatale of the film. Her powerhouse performance is rebellious and caustic, emotional and fun when she should, never melodramatic; each line of the screenplay comes out delicately from her mouth, using as means a character who doesn't want to lose freedom at the expense of an unsolicited recognition and toxic love.

And of course, the visual section leaves anyone speechless. A close-up, the camera slowly moves away from Alma's face, who, tranquil, narrates how unconditional and true was her love for the designer. Having as a background an incandescent bonfire coloring her skin of a crackling orange lost in blackness, it's how opens one of the most aesthetic and brilliantly crafted movies I have seen on the big screen. Obviously, it's primarily Mark Tildesley's production design that jumps out at you, which facilitates the staging of a discredited cinematographer who, without expecting, turns out to be the one who directs and writes, a man who truly put, soul, mind and heart to a memorable work. The colors of the landscapes, the textures of the dresses, the coincidence of the elements and the setting allow the construction of scenes that now are in my mind, without intention of leaving. Among the endless delicacy of vintage beauties, There are specifically two with which I'll remember the film: the first défilé de mode in which Alma models a gorgeous dress, a phenomenal and impossible to improve moment; and Woodcock looking for his wife at the New Year's Party, the fall of the multicolored balloons is a feat and an artistic gift full of love for cinema.

Shockingly beautiful, interestingly touching and caustically moralizing, "Phantom Thread" by Paul Thomas Anderson is an intense trip through the damaging relationship of two human beings consumed by hate and love, a story which you will only be willing to enjoy if you know the characteristics and constraints of the works from this warhorse. Laying on the table again the importance of women at any time, age and context, the film acts as a treatment to current global issues such as love martyrdoms, marital conflicts, abuse and human reaches. With an invaluable interpretation of Vicky Krieps and an emotional and sublime farewell to acting of a giant, the film benefits from the onerous and elegant high-class visuals and a passive-aggressive narrative to deliver an absorbing story, with dimensions of perfectionism as exquisite as those of the protagonist, with whom, from a personal point of view, the director/writer raises a representation of his own story; his films are the refined, detailed and tantalizing dresses.… Expand

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9

CineAutoctonoFeb 17, 2018

"Phantom Thread" was a great movie, the performances were masterful, the costumes are spectacular and the story is wonderful. Paul Thomas Anderson did another marvel to be a strong contender for the Oscars.

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10

PreyingOcelotFeb 6, 2018

Giving this a ten because 1. its a perfect film. 2. My score triggers "AxeT".

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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10

FilmJunkie2020Apr 19, 2018

In Phantom Thread, PTA takes from his inspirations and pushes their ideas and cinema as a whole to a new level. Watch this film, admire this film, learn from this film.

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7

ViniciusBritoMar 8, 2018

Reynolds Woodcock is a reputed stylist that makes dresses for some selected people, that pay and deserves it. He put his life at the job and considers it the most important thing. Meeting with Alma, he sees a perfect help for his work andReynolds Woodcock is a reputed stylist that makes dresses for some selected people, that pay and deserves it. He put his life at the job and considers it the most important thing. Meeting with Alma, he sees a perfect help for his work and also a lover, that will accompany him during his life.
The main character have some several points of nuisance, he struggles with any sound that people do while he is working, if someone bother him during the breakfest his full day is over, like a kid. Alma is a dubious character, she enters a different world, confronting Reynolds a lot of times. Cyril, Reyondolds sister, have a strong character that never raise your voice and still is so big in dominance and authority. DDL and Leslie did a phenomenal job, you can't even see the actor in their, they are just incredibly good. Vicky Krieps did an ok job, i though that in some times, mainly when she was acting together with DDL, she could have deliever a bit more.
Sincerely i got bored after the half of the movie sometimes, it just wasn't that interesting, very repetitive and slow, wich usually isn't a problem, but 1st layer of the story didin't attract me a lot. A melancholic drama, perfect dialogs and executions, spiritual reflections and also a romance, ego and adaptation. Showing how the vulnerability changes the people, and can make them different, and for other hand, what a people would do for love, and also what would accept and pass through to get his best, to get his "Alma" (Soul).
Hiding things in the seam, those are the phantoms, to avoid the curse by superstition perhaps.
The Score got me, i could feel the ambience and felt that i was there, that piano and classic sounds, seductive and suspenseful. The sound effects are very well made and have a important part in the story.… Expand

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10

Jacque0303Feb 12, 2018

Just...WOW...tasteful directing, meticulous scriptwriting, impeccable storytelling. A masterpiece.

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9

KaustavFeb 16, 2018

If I could I would instantly tell rate a 10; but that would mean that it's a flawless movie and everything in it is already of such an elevated standard, that it just won't be topped. But I, objectively, can't do that because it would be aIf I could I would instantly tell rate a 10; but that would mean that it's a flawless movie and everything in it is already of such an elevated standard, that it just won't be topped. But I, objectively, can't do that because it would be a bit unfair to classics like Casablanca and Citizen Kane.
Honestly though, I can't say I found any faults in this movie. It's Paul Anderson's work and I already consider his Magnolia one of my must watch movies (and there was quirky AF and weird enjoyable story of Boogie Nights). It stars Daniel Day Lewis, the man who effortlessly time again slipped into so many characters and brought into narration in such a glorious way that it leaves all of us glad about cinema. And the supporting couple of Manville and Krieps are almost are as good at bringing the best out of the interactions amongst the trio as the subtle and upheaving score that hums, a bit like a phantom indeed.
There's the rating, the acting, the cast and obviously, by now, you are most likely convinced. So, here's a right proper nudge in the direction of why south of two hours of your life's time is absolutely well spent on this: It is because Phantom Thread is one of most unlikely sort of biographical story and antitheticlally, the most personal sort of biography possible. It is the story of a man who was known for his work but what really needs to be told about him is who he was and how he behaved, why he was perturbed and how it comes to a beautiful tumble down for him. While Phantom Thread is a movie on the life of Reynolds Woodcock, who sew the best for the best to wear, but the title of the movie is almost a beguiling pun; for it is the phantom threads of His life that really get unwinded in this superlative act of storytelling.
I hope I have helped somewhat in making up your mind. And if you don't want to, 'you should eff off back to wherever you came from'.… Expand

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8

amheretojudgeFeb 7, 2018

and i am getting hungry..

Phantom Thread Even though the plot has nothing out-of-the-box to offer and even though all the characters seem familiar and even though if you have seen a similar feature of this premise, it always is worth to seeand i am getting hungry..

Phantom Thread

Even though the plot has nothing out-of-the-box to offer and even though all the characters seem familiar and even though if you have seen a similar feature of this premise, it always is worth to see the world through Paul's eyes. Phantom Thread has far better editing than 'There Will Be Blood' resulting into no faults on execution and just like a slow timer the movie even though being longer than 2 hours, reaches comfortably to its climax and still being wanted more of it by the audience. Daniel makes you fall in love with a character that is utterly rude and obnoxiously self obsessed; need I say more on him, and he is supported well by Leslie and by Vicky who surprisingly has a parallel role. Paul; as mentioned earlier doesn't take any chance on execution, but what's appreciative here is his writing skills for even though being restrained in a not-so-wide and popular genre, he goes bold and stands on his ground till the last page. Phantom Thread screeches onto one's fragile heart to its vulnerability and failure that ironically defines obscured and irrelevant hope allowing audience to shift seats on a definite answer which is its core beauty.… Expand

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9

AndrewBurgeApr 14, 2018

You know the phrase "Beauty lies on the inside". It is often used in reference to something which has an unpleasant appearance but is pleasant beneath. Well, it is the other way around with 'Phantom Thread', Paul Thomas Anderson's newestYou know the phrase "Beauty lies on the inside". It is often used in reference to something which has an unpleasant appearance but is pleasant beneath. Well, it is the other way around with 'Phantom Thread', Paul Thomas Anderson's newest subtle portrayal of the complex dark emotions lying deep beneath us.

Indeed, this is a film which looks and sounds brilliant, sophisticated, pretentious and even luxurious. The soundtrack, while subtle and not very catchy, is present very often and at times being present only as hums and delicate occasional touches on its piano chords. But, its beauty hides complex sorrows and near masochistic principles of which, the most obvious are the ones of its lead character, Reynolds Woodcock, a renowned dressmaker with a obsessive compulsive routine, portrayed brilliantly by the exclusive Daniel Day-Lewis. He demands absolute silence at breakfast, he cuts his nose and ear hairs with absolute precision, but what destroys him most is his obsession with his work.

Indeed, when he meets Alma, a German girl, he constantly complements her perfect form, but does he really love her, or she sees her as an idealistic model for his dresses. Well, in the end he loves her, but still under his own principles and rules. These rules are never ever set apart for anything as his sister and assistant, Cyril, a by-the-book woman is always by his side... Always!

Paul Thomas Anderson often presents the darkest human emotions and desires through subtle and disturbing acts. Yet in this movie he also masks them with visual and auditory elegance. These are slowly stripped away as we are pulled closer into their minds, like Woodcock's sorrow over the death of his mother, claiming: "it is comforting to know the dead watch over the living. I don't find that spooky at all". Yet the unusual love between him and Alma is decomposed as she occasionally poisons him with mushrooms just enough for him to get sick so he can care for him and be with him, Yet despite him knowing that, he does not mind. In fact he finds pleasure in it. It is an uneasy psychological game in which they engage portraying their sanity-altering self-absorbed nobility-principled line of thoughts.… Expand

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9

bigturtles10Apr 8, 2018

Almost a 10, this movie is amazing. The acting, top shelf. The writing, spectacular. The directing, parallel with everything. Sometimes dark, but mostly beautiful in a way no movie is. The cinematography is imprinted in my mind, of the carAlmost a 10, this movie is amazing. The acting, top shelf. The writing, spectacular. The directing, parallel with everything. Sometimes dark, but mostly beautiful in a way no movie is. The cinematography is imprinted in my mind, of the car driving, the dresses being made, the dimly lit settings. Daniel Day Lewis's 1000's of intricate and accurate expressions. The music making me feel everything I'm supposed to in the right moment. Everything was beautiful. One quality I love most about PTA movies are the endings. There will be blood had me disturbed, and intrigued with the final line "I'm finished", it was perfect. The last line of this movie (I may be misquoting) "But right now we are right here and I am hungry", is beautiful, and brings a tear to my eye.… Expand

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9

BladeLover2049Aug 18, 2018

A fascinating introspection of how the dead link death with life through obscure and obsessive ties that unite us to a death-defiled life. The masterpiece of the director.

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9

FabrizioMaffeiSep 10, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The phantom thread, is one of those films where everything, everything: from photography, to music, costumes, actors (and what actors! Majestic) are in the right place at the right time.
The 1950s are told and photographed and recited as if it were a 1700s costumed film, like a Barry Lyndon in 1900.
But if the representation is deliberately distant, it is topical the theme that the director / writer engaged: the transition from a very hard, despotic patriarchy and the birth of what was then feminism.
The story tells of Reynolds Woodcock (to make the idea an English Donald Draper) stylist, genius, surrounded only by women: loved (in his own way), who work for him (according to his rules) and who considers all expendable. He is the center of the universe and his habits, his delusions must only be indulged without being opposed in any way at risk of being excluded from his circle. Everything moves according to these rules until Alma, her "favorite, lover, concubine, employee" decides that she is not expendable.
This "The phantom thread" is really high cinema and, thanks Anderson.… Expand

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10

DoniJrNov 8, 2018

It's easy for me to call it a perfect movie. It's really well crafted, beautifily written and the setting adds a charm that I love about period pieces and classic movies. The Hitchcock's inspiration it's undeniable and the romantic and yetIt's easy for me to call it a perfect movie. It's really well crafted, beautifily written and the setting adds a charm that I love about period pieces and classic movies. The Hitchcock's inspiration it's undeniable and the romantic and yet haunting story really could've been a theme from one of his movies.… Expand

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3

jhepSep 28, 2019

This movie feels more like a play than a film; Pinter-like with lots of ominous undertones i.e., fashion designer Reynolds being told by sister Cyril not to pick a fight with her because she will annihilate him !! The story gradually loosesThis movie feels more like a play than a film; Pinter-like with lots of ominous undertones i.e., fashion designer Reynolds being told by sister Cyril not to pick a fight with her because she will annihilate him !! The story gradually looses its way and by the time we get to the final denouement with its twist on “the-way-a-man’s-heart-is-through-his-stomach” you get the feeling that director Anderson has been playing a bit of a practical joke on us. Let’s hope Alma’s cooking tips don’t catch on with any disenchanted housewives in the audience !… Expand