REVIEW: “Anemone” (2025)

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I was absolutely blown away by Danial Day-Lewis’s return to acting in “Anemone” after being away for eight years! I truly believe this will be one of the most discussed performances of the year. He always takes on such richly complex characters, and he really gets inside their heads – it’s the same intensity and precision that has defined his incredible, three-time Oscar-winning career.

This is more than just Daniel Day-Lewis revisiting a beloved hobby. “Anemone” is a project he’s deeply invested in, as he co-wrote it with his son, Ronan Day-Lewis. Notably, Ronan also makes his directorial debut with this film, directing his father. This close relationship between them clearly translates to the screen, offering a touching and unique look at the bond between fathers and sons.

“Anemone” is a deeply affecting family drama with a strong psychological focus. It tackles difficult and sensitive themes like the lasting effects of childhood trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, troubled relationships within families, feelings of loneliness, and the struggle between self-criticism and accepting oneself. The film is visually stunning, and the cinematography plays a crucial role in telling the story. The narrative unfolds slowly and deliberately, carefully and skillfully revealing the characters and the experiences that have shaped their lives.

I was completely captivated by the performance of the elder Day-Lewis, who plays Ray Stoker. He’s such a broken man, and you quickly realize he’s intentionally shut himself off from the world – the reasons why become heartbreakingly clear as the story goes on. He lives way out in the middle of nowhere, in this tiny, simple stone cabin, so hidden in the forest that you can’t even get a vehicle near it. What really struck me was how Ronan Day-Lewis and his cinematographer, Ben Fordesman, used the natural world to create such a powerful atmosphere and really immerse you in Ray’s environment. They showed these swirling, dramatic clouds and the forest canopy moving in the wind, and you could almost *feel* the rain falling on Ray’s tin roof. It was just stunning visual storytelling – a really beautiful way to set the scene and get you ready for what’s to come. It really adds to the emotional weight of the film.

I was really drawn into the story when Ray’s quiet life is suddenly shaken up by a visit from his brother, Jem (played by Sean Bean). You can immediately feel the awkwardness and distance between them, and the film carefully unravels *why* they’re so strained. It’s fascinating watching them spend a few days together, digging up memories – both good and bad – and slowly figuring out what really happened in their family. It all builds to a big reveal, explaining exactly why Jem decided to show up, and it’s a really powerful moment. It’s like they’re carefully picking at old wounds, trying to understand everything.

Although Ray and Jem are very different people, their brotherly connection remains strong. We discover both men have violent histories that have influenced their personalities. The main contrast is that one found some inner peace through religious belief, while the other has isolated himself and struggles with his inner turmoil. During their interactions, feelings of bitterness, resentment, and contempt occasionally emerge. However, we also witness genuine moments of understanding and connection between them.

Jem and Ray’s time in the wilderness is interrupted by visits back to the outside world, where Jem’s wife, Nessa (Samantha Morton), is dealing with difficulties concerning her son, Brian (Samuel Bottomley). Brian has gotten into trouble after seriously injuring someone during military exercises. He’s been sent home and is grappling with what he did, while Nessa fears he’s repeating past mistakes. The link between these scenes and Jem’s trip to see Ray is best discovered while watching the film, but they greatly enrich the narrative and culminate in a powerful resolution. These connections add significant layers to the story.

The film’s script is remarkably bold, unusual, and sharply intelligent. It focuses on a tightly-focused, character-driven story, equally relying on what the characters say, the actors’ performances, and the way the film looks. Although the dialogue is well-written and Day-Lewis gives some truly captivating speeches, the quiet moments are just as powerful, particularly the scenes between the brothers, who often seem to understand each other without speaking.

Regarding the acting, Daniel Day-Lewis completely immerses himself in yet another complex and mysterious role. He deeply explores Ray’s mind, showing his internal struggles through a controlled anger and moments of surprisingly biting humor. However, Day-Lewis never lets us forget Ray’s basic humanity. Bean is a fantastic contrast to Day-Lewis. He’s reserved but commands attention, always keenly aware of what’s happening around him. He’s essential to the film and appears in some of its most memorable scenes. It’s a truly captivating performance.

“Anemone” might not appeal to all viewers. Its serious subject matter and somber mood can be demanding, and the film doesn’t follow a predictable, straightforward plot. Instead, the storytelling intentionally breaks many traditional rules, cleverly shifting between artistic, stylized visuals and a stark, realistic feel. Despite this, the movie is full of creative energy from a bold debut director and features a fantastic performance from a truly gifted actor. Overall, “Anemone” is easily one of the most impressive films of the year.

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2025-10-04 01:58