"compelling to watch, with uninterrupted intensity and imagination"

The film is anchored by the powerful presence of Daniel Day-Lewis as Daniel Plainview, a silver miner turned oilman. Daniel Day Lewis delivers a performance worthy of Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and other movie titans. His depiction of Daniel Plainview is simply outstanding, a man moved by greed and hatred. His character is already one of the most charismatic villains of all times, one that would make Hannibal Lecter himself get goosebumps. Paul Dano also gives a surprisingly mature performance, showing that he has come a long way since he played the silent teenager in Little Miss Sunshine.

The cinematography is what makes even the dullest of moments in the film watchable. Every shot seemed to be thought out perfectly making even the smallest of things beautiful. The characters are interesting, as they should be, because this is not a plot driven film, but a character piece. The acting is captivating. When Day-Lewis gives a speech, you want to hear it. The writing for the characters was also good. Even with the big theatrical over-exaggerated pauses and unrealistic bouts of silence for dramatic effect make the characters feel real.

This film is compelling to watch, with uninterrupted intensity and imagination. A slight struggle occupies the first 15-20 minutes, without a single word of spoken dialogue. Paul Anderson knows how to tell a story in image and sound. A some-what week story for such a long film, I left feeling slightly unsatisfied despite the intense ending. You may not want to revisit this film anytime soon, but it will be for all the right reasons. It is a powerful Oscar worthy and emotionally draining experience.