Without doubt the greatest film of the mid-2000's

Rating: 10/10 (6 July 2013)

After amazing films such as "Boogie Nights", "Magnolia" and "The Master", PT Anderson is probably the greatest living director today, this masterpiece of a movie justifies that title.
The story revolves around a prospector, named Daniel Plainview (Day- Lewis) which is looking to make a fortune out of oil in the early twentieth century. No spoilers, he finds an oil-ore and becomes a very wealthy man. The only obstacle to ensure an even bigger paycheck is a small Californian town which welcomes him with open arms when he promises daily bread on their tables, new roads and a school. In order for Daniel to fulfill their needs, he wants unlimited access to their undiscovered petroleum-resources. Very early on we get to see Daniel's greed, deceit and lies slowly distorting the man's moral compass, which also affects his adopted son H.W during the story.
This is undoubtedly the greatest acting ever on screen, it's surreal to see Day-Lewis being Plainview. The last 45 minutes is pure acting-gold. I was shocked and scared during the "I drink your milkshake"-scene at the end, such a sinister performance. Paul Dano does also a remarkable and underrated performance as the overly religious twins Paul, and Daniel's nemesis Eli Sunday. The church-scenes are mesmerizing and full of energy, great actor! Honorable mention is Dylan Frasier as H.W, a talented young actor I'm certain we'll see more of in the future.
Robert Elswit won a very well-deserved Oscar for his cinematography. It's stunningly beautiful, which is quite ironic for a movie which is so evil and sinister. This combined with Anderson's amazing direction and subliminal messages just hits home-run.
"There Will Be Blood" is an unique film. It shows how greed can affect a person and the people closest to them. Anderson knows his craft, and clearly shows it. Day-Lewis is a monster of an actor and offers his best role to date, no, I'll go as far as saying this is the best acting displayed in any movie to date next to Heath Ledger's Joker. See this film, it's a must-see for people who loves the art of cinema. Hurry up with "Inherent Vice", Anderson..
-MB