Daniel Day-Lewis Returns to Acting in Son’s Film
Anemone, while delivering strong performances, differs from initial expectations. After eight years away from acting, Sir Daniel Day-Lewis demonstrates that his remarkable talent remains intact. The film also marks the confident feature debut of his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, who directs and co-writes the project with his father.
Exploring Family and Conflict
The story delves into the complex relationships between fathers, sons, and brothers. Set against the backdrop of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, the film opens with a child's drawings depicting the era, immediately showcasing Ronan Day-Lewis’s bold directorial style and innovative use of music.
Plot and Characters
- Daniel Day-Lewis and Sean Bean portray estranged brothers, Ray and Jem.
- Both served in the British Army during the conflict.
- Twenty years prior, Ray left society to live off-grid in the forest.
- At the film’s start, Jem seeks out Ray to bring him back to his ex, Nessa (played by Samantha Morton), and their troubled son Brian (Samuel Bottomley).
- Since Ray disappeared, Jem has assumed Ray’s role within the family.
Unique Storytelling Techniques
The film notably unfolds with no dialogue in the first 30 minutes. This silence is skillfully managed by Day-Lewis, establishing characters and settings through visual storytelling and atmosphere.
“You can understand why Day-Lewis Sr would be tempted back into performing with this, although he disputes that he ever officially ‘retired.’”
Summary: Daniel Day-Lewis’s son presents a confident debut in Anemone, where profound family dynamics meet innovative storytelling, showcasing Day-Lewis’s lasting acting prowess.