Acclaimed actor Daniel Day-Lewis is coming out of retirement to appear in a new film directed by his son, Ronan Day-Lewis. The film, titled “Anemone,” marks the senior Day-Lewis’s first acting role since 2017 and the younger Day-Lewis’s first time directing a feature film.
Day-Lewis, 67, is best known for his intense method acting performances, which have earned him three Academy Awards. He last starred in “Phantom Thread” before announcing his retirement in 2017. Now, he will take on the lead role in “Anemone” while also co-writing the screenplay with his son.
The film explores relationships between family members such as fathers, sons, and brothers. It is currently filming on location in Manchester, England. Ronan Day-Lewis, 26, makes his directorial debut with “Anemone” after previously directing a short film and music video. As a first-time feature director, he will be guiding a cast that includes his famous father as well as other notable actors.
“Anemone” is supported by production companies Focus Features and Plan B Entertainment. Focus Features chairman Peter Kujawski said the studio is “excited to partner with Ronan,” calling him a “brilliant visual artist” and praising the “exceptional script” he wrote with his father. Daniel Day-Lewis is known for taking long breaks between films and dedicating himself fully to his roles when acting. His acclaimed movies include “My Left Foot,” “There Will Be Blood,” and “Lincoln,” for which he won Oscars.
The film is using experienced talent behind the scenes as well. Cinematographer Ben Fordesman will shoot “Anemone,” bringing experience from movies such as “Love Lies Bleeding.” Costume designer Jane Petrie of “The Crown” fame and production designer Chris Oddy, who worked on “Zone of Interest,” round out the key crew. “Anemone” is scheduled for release in 2025 and promises to be one of the most anticipated films that year due to Daniel Day-Lewis’s return to acting after a lengthy break.
