Powerful, compelling drama, stunning performances

Rating: 8/10 (3 March 2008)

Daniel Plainview, a ruthless oilman, arrives in a small town to dig for oil, only to come into conflict with the local preacher, Eli Sunday....
There Will Be Blood is a movie that a lot of critics have been saying changes modern cinema. In truth, I can't see how, but then I'm not a critic. However, I will say this : There Will Be Blood is a fantastic movie.
Daniel Day Lewis gives a gripping and powerful performance as Plainview. Even during the opening minutes, where there is no dialogue, he still commands the screen. It's to the credit of the others in the cast, especially Paul Dano as Eli that they hold their own against him.
Paul Thomas Anderson who wrote the screenplay as well as directing the movie, takes his time in telling his story. The battle of wills between Plainview and Eli is gripping, and shows that both are as bad as each other in their own ways. Plainview will do whatever he can to get his way, as will Eli.
If there is a criticism to be made is the ending. The scene at the end of the movie brought a few giggles from some audience members, until the final shocking act occurs. In truth, I'm not sure for the reason for the ending as is. True it may come from the source novel, which I've not read, but it doesn't quite sit with the rest of the movie.
The music by Jonny Greenwood from the band Radiohead grips through-out. It was a shame that it was ineligible for the Oscars as it's one of the best scores of the past few years. The cinematography by Robert Elswit is also fantastic, and won a deserved Oscar.
But this is Daniel Day Lewis's movie. Fully deserving of his Oscar win, this is possibly his best performance yet. I know he takes his time selecting the movies he wants to make, but I hope it won't be too long before we see him again.
And the same goes for Paul Thomas Anderson. As a writer and director he seems to bet better with every movie. It'll be interesting to see what he does next. You feel he can make a movie on any subject.
This is a powerful movie, and deserves to be seen.