Anemone, Daniel Day-Lewis' first film in eight years and a three-time Oscar winner, has just premiered in cinemas after much expectation.
Co-written by Daniel Day-Lewis alongside his son and director Ronan Day-Lewis, the story opens with Jem Stoker (Sean Bean, Game of Thrones) praying quietly for strength before leaving his wife, Nessa (Oscar-nominee Samantha Morton, In America) and speeding off on a motorbike.
Jem travels to a remote shack in the Yorkshire woods where his older, reclusive brother Ray (Daniel Day-Lewis), whom he has not seen for 20 years, lives. Their reunion is cold, marked by long, tense silences.
Throughout the movie's two-hour duration, it gradually reveals why Jem sought out Ray and the reasons behind Ray’s self-imposed isolation.
This film blends family drama with thriller and horror elements, establishing a strong and deliberate tone from the start.
“Anemone has such a strong command of tone, creating a thick air of mystery, dread and suspense.”
The film takes its time, carefully uncovering character motivations and information, making the tension build steadily throughout.
Author's summary: Anemone masterfully combines a haunting family drama with thrilling suspense, driven by compelling performances and atmospheric direction.