Daniel Day-Lewis Returns to Acting in Son's Film 'Anemone' After Six-Year Break

September 11, 2025
Daniel Day-Lewis Returns to Acting in Son's Film 'Anemone' After Six-Year Break
  • Daniel Day-Lewis has returned to acting with his new film 'Anemone,' directed by his son Ronan, after a period of stepping back from the industry.

  • He last appeared in the 2017 film 'Phantom Thread' and has expressed mixed feelings about re-engaging with acting, citing emotional exhaustion and concerns about losing his passion.

  • Day-Lewis clarified that he never truly retired from acting but shifted focus to explore other projects, including a break to pursue different paths like training as a shoemaker.

  • The film 'Anemone' originated from long-standing ideas about brotherhood and silence, evolving through improvisation and collaborative writing over several years, involving both Daniel and Ronan.

  • Set in Northern England, 'Anemone' explores complex family relationships, with Day-Lewis playing Ray Stoker, a man confronting his past and reconnecting with his estranged brother, played by Sean Bean.

  • The film features surreal and darkly humorous elements, including improvised scenes like a bizarre monologue about scatological revenge, adding a hyperreal tone.

  • 'Anemone' is scheduled for release in the US on October 3, in the UK on November 7, and in German cinemas on November 13, with production by Brad Pitt’s Plan B.

  • Directed by Ronan Day-Lewis from a script co-written with Daniel, the film also stars Samuel Bottomley, Safia Oakley-Green, and Samantha Morton.

  • Day-Lewis, a three-time Oscar winner for 'My Left Foot,' 'There Will Be Blood,' and 'Lincoln,' remains a highly acclaimed actor whose return has generated significant excitement.

  • His comeback has rekindled interest in his unique approach to acting, which he describes as emotionally truthful and organic, despite occasional breaks in his career.

  • While uncertain if he will accept more acting roles, Day-Lewis has not ruled out returning to the screen, and his recent work suggests acting remains a vital part of his life.

  • Reflecting on his career, Day-Lewis admits he regrets announcing his retirement prematurely and wishes he had kept quiet about his decision to step back from acting.

Summary based on 18 sources


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