Daniel Day-Lewis's acting return in son's new film turned my stomach
Anemone, while driven by impressive performances, diverges from what many might expect. After eight years away from the screen, Sir Daniel Day-Lewis proves his immense skill remains intact. The film also introduces a strong debut for his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, who directs and co-writes the feature alongside his father.
Now showing in cinemas, Anemone delves into the tangled bonds between fathers, sons, and brothers. It’s easy to see why Daniel Day-Lewis would be drawn back to acting with such a project—even if he maintains he never formally “retired.” Still, this is not a film that will appeal to everyone.
About the film
The story begins with a child’s sketches depicting the Troubles in Northern Ireland. From the outset, Ronan Day-Lewis demonstrates a confident visual style and a strong sense of musical rhythm. Daniel Day-Lewis and Sean Bean portray estranged brothers, Ray and Jem, both former members of the British Army during the height of the conflict.
Two decades earlier, Ray retreated into the forest to live in isolation and disconnect from the modern world. As the film opens, Jem sets out to find his brother and bring him back to his former partner Nessa (Samantha Morton) and her troubled son Brian (Samuel Bottomley). It becomes clear that Jem has assumed Ray’s place in their lives since his disappearance.
“That nobody speaks for the first 30 minutes or so of the film is deftly handled by Day-Lewis, as relationships and settings are established.”
Author’s Summary
Anemone showcases the seamless artistry shared between Daniel and Ronan Day-Lewis, balancing silence and emotional depth to explore fractured family ties with haunting precision.