“ Day-Lewis’ portrayal of Daniel Plainview is the kind of performance the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences — that monolithic, unknowable group of temporary (very temporary) tastemakers — tends to like, so it’s no surprise he landed a best actor nomination. This is also the kind of turn that often wows moviegoers precisely because they don’t know what to make of it. It’s suitably mysterious (“Why is he doing that? I have no idea, but it’s cool!”) even as we can see its craftsmanship on display. As movie lovers, we want our actors to be able to do things we can’t. If they’re too natural — too much like us — whatever it is they’re doing might not look like artistry. And what did we buy that movie ticket for, after all?
A terrific article on why Daniel Day-Lewis’ performance as Daniel Plainview in There Will Be Blood isn’t among his best, but is so well-received.
Daniel Day-Lewis, too great to be good | Salon Arts & Entertainment
