Watching a Paul Thomas Anderson film is like meeting a new person. Each of his films is so different and made up of unique characters. There can be found an underlying sense of want of purpose and search for connection in his films. But PTA rarely repeats himself, and shows this in new ways each time. He takes us to new places and introduces us to new characters. We then get to take on this voyeuristic point of view, and see the lives of these people play out and this certainly all applies to “Phantom Thread.”
PTA has worked with the modern rock star of method acting, Daniel Day-Lewis, twice. In each film, Day-Lewis creates men so discernible from one another, it’s odd to think the same person could bring them to life, but that’s Day-Lewis for you. Reynolds Woodcock could not be more different from Daniel Plainview from “There Will Be Blood” in the way we see their relationships pan out. In “Phantom Thread,” we see Reynolds as a man who needs order. That order, is often manifested by his sister Cyril. Seeming confident, he is weak and his whole perception is based off the one thing he is good at making beautiful clothes. Plainview’s drive comes from want of large-scale power. He’s manipulative, turning the tables each time. Order, on his terms, is the way he lives.
It is Reynolds relationship with Alma in “Phantom Thread” that is the point of all deterrence in contrast between the two characters. Alma can see through Reynolds’ facade, seeing herself in him. This relationship becomes twisted, manipulative, and emotionally abusive. But it is a relationship of giving and taking that both become comfortable with. There’s such an interesting comparison in the two dynamic men Day-Lewis has brought to life for PTA. Plainview has such confidence, and can adapt well, but his relationships are so strained, he drives everyone away. He terrifies, rather than intimidates. Reynolds has created confidence based out of appearances out of his dress-designer image. So much can be said for these two characters. But we see Reynolds in “Phantom Thread” through the eyes of Alma, watching their relationship ebb and flow, turn and twist.
Watch the video essay on this twisted relationship from Jack’s Movie Reviews.
