The film Anemone marks a significant return for Daniel Day-Lewis, who steps back into the spotlight alongside his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, as both director and co-screenwriter. This British-American co-production explores the complexities of family through the story of estranged brothers, Ray and Jem, played by Day-Lewis and Sean Bean, respectively.
In the film, Ray, a former British soldier, has withdrawn from society, haunted by his past experiences in Northern Ireland. His brother Jem seeks him out when their teenage nephew, Brian, portrayed by Samuel Bottomley, finds himself in trouble. This plot not only emphasizes the theme of familial bonds but also reflects the personal connection between Daniel and Ronan, who share their creative journey on and off the screen.
Family Legacies Intertwined
The dynamic between father and son during promotional interviews is strikingly warm, showcasing an affectionate bond. Daniel listens intently to Ronan, beaming with pride as his son articulates their shared vision for the film. Ronan, who comes from a lineage rich in artistic talent, being the son of Rebecca Miller and the grandson of poet laureate Cecil Day-Lewis, has spent years contemplating stories of brotherhood, inspired by his own experience as one of three boys.
Ronan’s fascination with sibling relationships aligned with his father’s desire to explore similar themes. “It was clear he also had this fascination with brotherhood and the silences between siblings,” Ronan explained. Their collaborative process took four years, with Daniel noting that they only wrote when physically together, allowing for spontaneity in their creative output.
A Return from Retirement
Daniel’s return to acting comes after an eight-year hiatus following the release of Phantom Thread, during which he had stepped back to reassess his career. With three Academy Awards and numerous accolades to his name, his absence was felt in the film industry. Last year, he confirmed his comeback with a project he developed with Ronan, showcasing the strong familial ties that influence their work.
While Anemone is not autobiographical, Ronan acknowledges the personal elements that emerge when crafting a story. Daniel resonates with Brian’s longing for a father figure, drawing parallels with his own life after losing his father at a young age.
Taking the helm as director, Ronan faced the challenge of guiding his father and a talented cast, including Samantha Morton, while striving to create a supportive environment on set. He drew inspiration from his mother’s experiences directing Daniel in the 2005 film The Ballad of Jack and Rose, aiming to foster strong rapport with actors to elicit their best performances.
Through their collaboration, the Day-Lewis family embodies the harmony that contrasts with the emotional tensions depicted in their film. As they delve into the darker aspects of familial relationships, their genuine connection provides a foundation for exploring these themes effectively.
The film Anemone, set for release in March 2024, promises to showcase not only the artistic talents of Daniel and Ronan Day-Lewis but also the enduring power of family ties in storytelling. Their partnership illustrates how personal histories can enrich cinematic narratives, ultimately enhancing the audience’s emotional experience.
