The Director's Series: P.T. Anderson, No. 2


Throughout 2025 I'm turning my focus to Directors. They help craft the vision on screen that makes a movie work. This year I'm looking at five favorite films from 18 directors I admire and 10 films directed by different women that I have enjoyed. Join me Fridays and Saturdays throughout 2025 as we take this journey.

Phantom Thread (2017)
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Vicky Krieps, and Lesley Manville
Director: Paul Thomas Anderson
About: Anderson has made many films with powerful stars and engrossing stories. But, for me, his two best are his partnership with the great Daniel Day-Lewis. The first of those on this list is Phantom Thread, a fascinating drama about a meticulous fashion designer, his strong-willed sister, and the woman who throws both their lives and business off balance. Krieps is incredible here. She goes toe-to-toe with Day-Lewis, who is an incredible and talented actor. Anderson delivers a beautifully crafted and engaging film. I love the look, I love the feel, I love the performances, and I love the power in this finished product. It is a different, seemingly more restrained Anderson film, and it is brilliant.

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