Paul Thomas Anderson on Working with Daniel Day Lewis

TL;DR

Daniel Day-Lewis showcases humor and complexity in his latest film, "Phantom Thread."

Transcript

DANIEL DAY LEWIS IS THE STAR OF YOUR NEW MOVIE WHICH IS GREAT, "PHANTOM THREAD," BEAUTIFUL MOVIE, AND WEIRDLY FUNNY. I DON'T KNOW IF THAT WAS PART OF THE PLAN, EXACTLY. BUT THERE IS LIKE A LOT OF HUMOR IN THE FILM. >> YEAH, I MEAN -- >> Jimmy: AM I WRONG ON THAT? >> NO, YOU'RE RIGHT. I THINK THE IMPRESSION PEOPLE MIGHT GET ABOUT DANIEL IS THAT... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍🏭 "Phantom Thread" showcases Daniel Day-Lewis's ability to blend humor effortlessly into a serious narrative, breaking down traditional acting stereotypes.
• 😓 Staying in character is a hallmark of Day-Lewis's technique, but it generates both intrigue and logistical challenges among cast and crew members.
• ❓ The humorous side of Day-Lewis is often overlooked, yet his enjoyment in acting and capacity for comedy is integral to his character development.
• 🪜 His retirement from acting adds a layer of mystery to his legacy, prompting discussions about the motivations behind his decision.
• 🤩 Co-stars' experiences with Day-Lewis reveal a mix of admiration and bewilderment at his dedication to character immersion.
• 👅 Day-Lewis's unique taste in reality television, particularly his enjoyment of "Naked and Afraid," adds a relatable dimension to his persona.
• 🎥 The film "Phantom Thread" allows audiences to see a different perspective of Day-Lewis, highlighting the movie's deep narrative and complex character portrayals.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does Daniel Day-Lewis maintain his character while filming?

Daniel Day-Lewis immerses himself completely in his character, often staying in character for extended periods, sometimes months at a time. This method allows him to become a three-dimensional being on set, providing an authentic performance that his co-stars can interact with. It can be peculiar, as interactions happen within the framework of the character, but it can also assist in creating a cohesive narrative during filming.

Q: What is notable about Day-Lewis's sense of humor?

Despite being labeled as a serious actor, Day-Lewis possesses a genuine sense of humor, which sometimes surprises those around him. A prime example is his joking nature in character, including a notable impression of Tim Gunn. His ability to find levity in his roles challenges the perception that he is always somber, proving he can blend humor seamlessly into his performances.

Q: How do his co-stars react to his immersive acting style?

Co-stars often find Day-Lewis's commitment to his characters fascinating and, at times, challenging. The immersive nature of his approach means that when they arrive on set, they do not interact with Daniel but rather with the character he is portraying. This dynamic fosters a unique atmosphere that can enhance the quality of the film but also presents challenges in planning and conversation.

Q: Why did Daniel Day-Lewis announce his retirement from acting?

Day-Lewis's retirement follows the filming of "Phantom Thread," leaving many, including his collaborators, uncertain of the reasons behind it. His decision might stem from a desire to avoid trying to top the experience he had while filming, or it could be a continuation of his unique humor. His retirement announcement is still a topic of speculation among fans and industry colleagues.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Daniel Day-Lewis is recognized for his intense acting but surprisingly incorporates humor into his character in "Phantom Thread," revealing his versatility.

• Contrary to his serious reputation, Day-Lewis often stays in character, which can be both amusing and beneficial for directors during filming.

• His retirement from acting after "Phantom Thread" raises questions about his future in the industry, potentially stemming from either an unsatisfactory experience or his unique sense of humor.