A character study not seen since Citizen Kane

Rating: 9/10 (22 January 2008)

There Will Be Blood
This film initially intrigued me because it had so many positive reviews. After all several critics said that this should be the "Film of the Year". I saw the trailer once in the movies, and thought it was a historical movie about the oil boom era of the United States in the late 19th century. My cup of tea, being that I love any movie that has to so with History. However I was in for a rude awakening from what I anticipated. More than anything "There will be Blood" was an intense and profound character study that I have not seen since probably Citizen Kane, it has elements of history, but even stronger and more subtle messages about evangelical Christianity, greed, hypocrisy, capitalism, and the dark side of human nature. The story of centers around the persona of a certain man named Daniel Plainview and his quest for oil wealth and exceeds plainly in doing so.
The Good: Daniel Day Lewis who plays Daniel Plainview gives a performance to remember as he plays a man who is devoid of all ethics and love in his quest for wealth. He displays all the intensity and greed of his character in exceptional light. The supporting cast, including Paul Dano who plays Plainviews nemesis, the leader of the evangelical church of the 3rd revelation, Eli Sunday, is more than exceptional in their roles. The cinematography was excellent giving you a feel of early 20th century rural California. The plot and story while slow for some, is absolutely perfect in the depiction of the sinister of this man and how he affects a rural community. The strong messages of hypocrisy within religion institutions, human nature, evil, insidiousness, and greed are all exceptionally depicted here, as well as the ever-important historical aspect of the movie. The sound score was also excellent, with a haunting score whenever something of significance happens. A character study at its best.
The Bad: The movie might me a bit slow-moving for some. There are no overly violent, nor any sexual scenes, which is a huge plus for me, to others that is what makes a movie. The only other bad is that the role of Paul/Eli is confusing when one finishes the movie. But it can be clarified in any movie message board, they are twin brothers.
The Ugly: Daniel Plainviews sinister and insane facial expressions, especially when he starts losing his sanity. As well as his nihilistic views of humanity.
Overall:
Again, I haven't seen a character study like this since "Citizen Kane" and its distinct depiction of a few elements of American culture, human nature, greed, capitalism, sanity and religion make this movie well worth the price of admission. The emotions displayed in this movie covers the whole spectrum. No big bangs here, just a satisfying film experience that leaves you pondering about certain aspects of humanity.
Supra Score - 9.5/10