#25 - Phantom Thread (2017) ~ February 15
What can I say? Paul Thomas Anderson is undoubtedly one of the top three film directors working today, probably even the ultimate best. What an incredible film!
I think this was the first time I've ever seen a film all by myself in the theater. Usually, I always take some friends or take my girlfriend, but it just felt right to watch the new PTA film all alone. There wasn't a single seat occupied between me and the screen. It felt like I was the only person there.
For two hours and ten minutes I was hypnotized by the sounds of Johnny Greenwood and drawn into the rich world that was created. There are very few directors who have done period pieces as beautifully and subtly as PTA has.
The threeway power play and character study that are at the heart of this film are exquisitely constructed and pictured. The ending "twist" also took me completely by surprise and released me from all the doubts I was starting to get about where the plot was headed. Sheer genius! It proves again how insightful a filmmaker and writer PTA truly is. It's one of the greatest film moments of the last few years. The moment is almost as satisfying as it feels truthful. Cinematic history is full of voluntarily abusive two-way relationships, but never has one been presented with such intellect and finesse as in
Phantom Thread.
I'm quite tired and I'd love to discuss every tiny brilliant moment that's in this film, but let's conclude that PTA has yet again proven that he's in his own class. His films are more intelligent, more beautiful and funnier than any of his contemporaries'. He represents the pinnacle of modern filmmaking. Can't wait to revisit this one!