Phantom Thread

Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest, Phantom Thread, is a slow-burning, twisted love story between a creator and his muse.

At times melodramatic and at times sarcastically funny, the psychological unfolding of their tumultuous relationship is absolutely fascinating to watch. Daniel Day-Lewis plays Reynolds Woodcock, a top-tier, self-absorbed, petulant dressmaker. Known for his meticulous ways of preparing for his roles, Day-Lewis is the perfect choice to play this eccentric and fastidious genius.

In the house of Woodcock, Reynolds is surrounded by an assembly of wealthy female clientele, his team of seamstress and his icy yet domineering sister, Cyril. His muses stay at his house like mannequins waiting to be perfected, until they cease to be of use to him and are rendered disposable one after another. We see this pattern repeats itself in Reynolds’ relationship with Alma (Vicky Krieps). But, Anderson takes this trope further and subverts the usual dynamics of the old genius and his young muse. The arrival of Alma instigates a transfer of matronly power. Unlike the other mannequins who quietly accept their fate, Alma feels the need to assert her place. She soon takes over Cyril’s role as the surrogate mother figure and dominatrix of the house. Though Reynolds soon falls back into his disdainful demeanor, Alma, armed with her fierceness, is determined to make this relationship work on her own terms. The repetitive game of seduction, domination and submission between Reynolds and Alma gradually evolves into a whirling mass of codependency.

Mirroring the personality of the dressmaker himself, the film is repressed and moody, saved for several outbursts. Anderson layers the film with an elegant ambience. The quietness is alluring and captivating. But, the distance, created by Woodcock’s superciliousness also makes it emotionally cold and detached. Nevertheless, it doesn’t make the film any less engaging because when Anderson sets his heart to do something, he fully commits to it from start to finish. When the tension is finally built to the inevitable revelation towards the end, the sheer intensity will send chills down your spine.

(Originally posted on 13 Feb 2018 @projectunwrapped)