Anemone, the first film from three-time Oscar-winner Daniel Day-Lewis in eight years, has finally premiered in cinemas after much anticipation. Co-written by Day-Lewis and his son, director Ronan Day-Lewis, this movie delivers a gripping family drama blended with thriller and horror elements.
The story begins with Jem Stoker (Sean Bean, Game of Thrones) solemnly praying for strength before bidding farewell to his wife, Nessa (Oscar-nominee Samantha Morton, In America), and rushing off on his motorbike. Jem heads to an isolated shack in the Yorkshire woods to visit his estranged older brother, Ray (Daniel Day-Lewis), whom he hasn’t seen in 20 years.
The brothers’ reunion is cold and tense, filled with long silences. Over the film’s two-hour duration, the reasons behind Jem’s visit and Ray’s self-imposed isolation gradually unfold.
Anemone establishes a strong, deliberate tone from the start. The film takes its time to reveal character motivations and plot details, supported by Ben Fordesman’s sombre cinematography and Bobby Krlic’s moody, elusive score.
“Anemone has such a strong command of tone, creating a thick air of mystery, dread, and suspense.”
The movie is further elevated by the intense, enigmatic performances and Ronan Day-Lewis's distinct directorial style, which amplifies the feeling of tension throughout.
Author's summary: Anemone is a deeply atmospheric thriller where family secrets and tense emotions gradually surface, driven by compelling direction and standout performances.