Rent Phantom Thread (2017)

Bored me to tears - Phantom Thread review by RP

Really could not be bothered, tried for and hour then gave up, my wife persevered to then end but she was not impressed.

I can see how some people might love this...but I hated it! - Phantom Thread review by Champ

This is a well made film, with great performances throughout. However, I had not the slightest interest in any of the characters, or anything they did, and came to actively dislike them all by the end of the film. I can understand that some might enjoy it, but the Daniel Day Lewis character is so appalling, and not remotely sympathetic, that I actively wanted him to die (spoiler: he doesn't; I was dissappointed).

This is a superlative example of modern film. - Phantom Thread review by DW

Unhurried & understated, this is a fascinating story of love & dependency. The plot line is easy to accept as being realistic whilst absorbing. I'm glad I ignored the negative reviews.

A strange, disturbing film - Phantom Thread review by IanF

Vicky Kreips is apparently a German movie star little known in UK/US. She holds the film together, in the unlikely role of ingenue/ poisoner! A strange film, that looks good, but doesn't give a lot away as to where it is going, which turns out to be not a very good place in the end. Don't expect light hearted romance!

How disappointing - Phantom Thread review by JM

I wanted to watch this as Daniel Day Lewis is one of the world's greatest actors and so I assumed it would be an interesting film.

However, I don't know why he chose to take the role. It is nothing compared to his past films, an absolutely pointless plot. Not even sumptuous by Hollywood standards, like a low budget British austerity B movie. Immediately forgettable.

An interesting but claustrophobic tale - Phantom Thread review by PJ

In 1954 London, Reynolds Woodcock, a fashion designer, creates dresses for members of high society. His fashion house is successful and run by him with the crucial support of Cyril, his sister. When he meets a plain waitress in a restaurant, out in the countryside, he turns her into his main model, then starts a relationship with her.

The film is about that relationship, between him and her (Alma). It is a very good period film and an interesting sentimental tale of 2 people who get to know each other and, gradually, find a meaningful way that they can communicate. The acting is very good and so is the re-creation of London in the 1950s.

The film is slow-moving and, in some ways, very little happens, beyond the meanders of the 2 characters' relationship and the ups and downs of the fashion house's business. There is something oppressive and claustrophobic about the story because Reynolds, the central character, basically is a control freak who is obsessive in everything he does. He can be possessive and abusive, in his own way.

So, overall, a movie I would recommend, but a somewhat strange experience in more ways than one, starting with the looks of the Germanic-sounding lead actress, Alma, who is expressive and magnetic, but not conventionally pretty, to say the least, in my view.

Original and Finely crafted - Phantom Thread review by JR

The film is as finely crafted as one of Reynolds' dresses. Care and attention has been paid to every frame; the locations, the sound, the cinematography, and the music are all perfect. The acting is superb - Day Lewis' performance is detailed, nuanced and and completely absorbing to watch.