Daniel Day-Lewis is stepping out of retirement for his new film, Anemone. The three-time Oscar winner, known for My Left Foot, There Will Be Blood, and Lincoln, last appeared in 2017’s Phantom Thread. This return has sparked excitement among fans and the film industry alike.
The drama will premiere at the New York Film Festival, which runs from September 26 to October 13. Making the project even more personal, Anemone marks the feature directorial debut of his son, Ronan Day-Lewis. Father and son also co-wrote the script, creating a rare collaboration that blends their artistic visions.
A Powerful Family Drama
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The Hollywood Reporter notes that Anemone follows a middle-aged man, played by Sean Bean, who leaves his suburban home to reconnect with his hermit brother, portrayed by Daniel Day-Lewis. The brothers share a complicated history shaped by political and personal violence. Despite decades of distance, they attempt to rebuild their bond in the quiet, isolating woods.
The film promises an emotional mix of tense confrontations and moments of tenderness. Cinematographer Ben Fordesman brings the setting to life with widescreen shots that highlight the natural landscape. Samantha Morton and Samuel Bottomley deliver standout supporting performances that deepen the story’s emotional core.
Breaking His Silence After Retirement
When Daniel Day-Lewis retired in 2017, he said the decision was deeply personal. He explained that he needed to believe in the value of his work for it to matter. “If an audience believes it, that should be good enough for me. But lately, it isn’t,” he shared at the time.
Now, Anemone seems to have reignited his passion. By working alongside his son, Daniel Day-Lewis steps back into the spotlight with a role that blends emotional depth, layered storytelling, and the kind of performance that has defined his career.