A can't miss film

Rating: 8/10 (16 June 2008)

It is true that the plot does get fuzzy at some points, and the oddities of the story do seem daunting, but overall this film must be seen by anyone who considers themselves a movie buff.
"There Will Be Blood" opens with what must be nearly fifteen minutes of a lack of dialog, and yet viewers are drawn in by the unique and highly creative directing style of Paul Thomas Anderson.
The main selling point of this movie was Daniel Day Lewis' presence, a rare one, as he may be the most selective big name actor in modern cinema, and he does not disappoint. He exquisitely portrays a man's descent into madness and irrationality at the hands of the ludicrous oil business of the time period. Day Lewis makes you believe his anger, his frustration, his anguish at his son's disability. By the end, his performance is a consummate work of art.
But he is not the only reason that this movie is excellent. Paul Dano, who plays the role of Eli Sunday, the passionate but corrupt pastor of the local church, surprises us all with the energy of his acting.
The bi-play when both of these actors are on screen simultaneously is gripping. I couldn't take my eyes off the screen during the conflict over what Plainview owes Sunday for the church.
The final, and most important reason this film should be seen by all is the gravity of the issues it tackles. Corruption, anger, greed, and the wasteland that humanity is when confronted with limitless financial possibilities. Anderson conveys his message with resounding effectiveness.
Overall, yeah, this movie received a lot of hype and fanfare, maybe more than it deserved. But for this day and age, this movie is a masterpiece by comparison to the depravity found in "You Don't Mess with the Zohan" and others of the like.