Daniel Day-Lewis, widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time, is making his much-anticipated return to the screen after an eight-year absence with the film “Anemone.” The project, which premiered at the New York Film Festival, marks a significant collaboration between Day-Lewis and his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, who co-wrote and directed the film.
Daniel Day-Lewis’ retirement from acting came in 2017 after his critically acclaimed role in “Phantom Thread.” He expressed a desire to explore life outside the film industry. However, the creative journey with his son transformed into a full-blown feature film, evolving beyond its humble beginnings to become an exploration of familial ties and personal connection. “It saddened me that I had perhaps ruled myself out of that when I decided to work on something else for a while,” he commented, reflecting on the unexpected nature of this return to cinema.
In “Anemone,” Daniel portrays Ray Stoker, a reclusive hermit living in isolation, whose solitary life is interrupted by his brother Jem, played by Sean Bean. The film delves into themes of estrangement and reconciliation, ultimately urging Ray to reconnect with his estranged teenage son. Despite his extended hiatus, Day-Lewis demonstrates the same captivating intensity that has consistently defined his performances over the decades.
During interviews surrounding the film’s release, Day-Lewis conveyed a sense of humility and surprise at being back in the spotlight, after years of intentionally stepping away from the public eye. His genuine approach and eagerness to support Ronan were evident as he embraced the attention at the festival. “It’s been a stark reminder for me of: Oh, yeah, that’s what it’s like,” he remarked with a chuckle, hinting at the peculiar nature of fame.
Moreover, Day-Lewis took the opportunity to clarify misconceptions surrounding his acting approach, specifically with Method acting, asserting that it’s not as burdensome as some portray. “We’re all just trying to live in those moments, to burn yourself up trying to find that truth as well as you can,” he noted, emphasizing the diverse methodologies artists use to embody their characters.
Ronan Day-Lewis, at 27, has stepped into directing with a clear passion for storytelling, having observed his father’s artistic journey for years. The collaboration has brought forth a unique film that intertwines their artistic expressions, allowing both to explore their creativity in a shared space.
“Anemone” features improvised monologues and lush visuals, showcasing the intimate understanding between father and son. For Day-Lewis, this experience was not just about acting but also represents his first credit as a screenwriter—an endeavor he found enriching and transformative. “You can begin with absolutely nothing and the hunger can grow out of that,” he remarked, hinting at a renewed desire for creativity.
While Daniel Day-Lewis has not confirmed any future projects, the completion of “Anemone” suggests that his passion for storytelling is still very much alive. He acknowledges that expressing himself through acting has been a lifelong journey, and although he may not have felt a sense of longing during his absence, the innate need for artistic expression remains.
Through “Anemone,” Day-Lewis not only reconnects with his craft but also deepens the bond with his son, leading to a hopeful narrative about family, creativity, and the enduring allure of storytelling.