One-line Summary:
There Will Be Blood is a gripping and intense drama directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. Set in the early 20th century, the film follows the ruthless and ambitious oil prospector Daniel Plainview as he navigates the treacherous world of oil drilling and power struggles in California.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Paul Thomas Anderson
- Writer: Paul Thomas Anderson (screenplay), Upton Sinclair (novel)
- Main Cast: Daniel Day-Lewis as Daniel Plainview, Paul Dano as Eli Sunday, Dillon Freasier as H.W. Plainview
- Music Director: Jonny Greenwood
- Director of Photography: Robert Elswit
- Producers: Paul Thomas Anderson, Daniel Lupi, JoAnne Sellar
Plot:
Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, There Will Be Blood centers around Daniel Plainview, a driven and cunning oil prospector. The film opens with Plainview’s discovery of a promising oil deposit in a small California town. As he begins drilling, he encounters Eli Sunday, a charismatic and zealous preacher who claims the land belongs to his church.
Plainview strikes a deal with the Sunday family, but tensions quickly rise as the power struggle between the two men intensifies. Plainview’s ambition and greed drive him to manipulate and exploit those around him, including his adopted son, H.W. As his wealth and influence grow, Plainview’s moral compass becomes increasingly skewed, leading to devastating consequences for himself and those close to him.
Themes and Motifs:
There Will Be Blood explores themes of greed, ambition, and the corrupting nature of power. The film delves into the dark side of the American Dream, portraying the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve success and the toll it takes on their humanity. It also examines the clash between religion and capitalism, with Eli Sunday representing the hypocritical and manipulative aspects of organized religion.
The motif of oil runs throughout the film, symbolizing both wealth and destruction. It serves as a metaphor for the insatiable desire for power and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release in 2007, There Will Be Blood received critical acclaim for its powerful performances, atmospheric cinematography, and thought-provoking themes. The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won two for Best Actor (Daniel Day-Lewis) and Best Cinematography.
The movie has since gained a cult following and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of the 21st century. Its exploration of greed and the human condition continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
Recommendation:
There Will Be Blood is a masterclass in filmmaking, featuring a mesmerizing performance by Daniel Day-Lewis and stunning visuals. However, it is not a film for the faint of heart, as it delves into the darkest aspects of human nature. If you appreciate thought-provoking dramas with complex characters and a haunting atmosphere, this film is a must-watch.
Memorable Quote:
“Drainage! Drainage, Eli, you boy. Drained dry. I’m so sorry. Here, if you have a milkshake, and I have a milkshake, and I have a straw. There it is, that’s a straw, you see? You watching? And my straw reaches acroooooooss the room, and starts to drink your milkshake… I… drink… your… milkshake!” – Daniel Plainview
