After a long-overdue win for Best Director at the 98th Academy Awards, it’s time to take a look at some of Paul Thomas Anderson’s other films. While “One Battle After Another” was great, it is far from his best work, which truly speaks to his talents.
No. 1: “Magnolia”
Perhaps the greatest movie of all time, “Magnolia” is a sprawling epic that follows the lives of several characters in the San Fernando Valley who are all somewhat interrelated. The film has a fantastic ensemble cast, featuring Tom Cruise, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Julianne Moore, John C. Reilly, William H. Macy, and the list goes on. Anderson weaves each of the characters' plots together seamlessly.
Cruise’s performance as Frank T.J. Mackey, a somewhat vulgar motivational speaker for incels, steals the show in the ensemble. The film features a fantastic soundtrack by Aimee Mann and a great score by Jon Brion, which pair perfectly with its mesmerizingly long tracking shots. “Magnolia” is impossible to look away from, making its runtime of 3 hours and 9 minutes entirely worth it.
No. 2: “Boogie Nights”
“Boogie Nights” follows an aspiring porn star, Dirk Diggler (Mark Wahlberg), as he begins to make a name for himself in the 1970s adult entertainment world. The film also features an iconic ensemble cast, including Julianne Moore, John C. Reilly, Burt Reynolds, Don Cheadle, Philip Seymour Hoffman and more.
It’s chaotic, heartbreaking and hilarious all at the same time. While Diggler and his one special thing certainly take center stage, the rest of the ensemble is unforgettable. Each character is lived-in and stands out within the ensemble. Being Anderson’s first big commercial success, “Boogie Nights” feels huge.
No. 3: “Phantom Thread”
Set in 1950s London, “Phantom Thread” is a unique romantic drama. Daniel Day-Lewis plays Reynolds Woodcock, a very particular dressmaker who meets Alma (Vicky Krieps) and brings her into his life as his muse.
The costumes, especially Woodcock’s dresses, are stunning. The film features a beautiful score by Jonny Greenwood, which helps immerse the viewer in the period and setting. Day-Lewis and Krieps have fantastic chemistry that allows them to portray the pair’s unique and unsettling dynamic.
No. 4: “Punch-Drunk Love”
“Punch-Drunk Love” follows Barry Egan (Adam Sandler) as he finds love, collects coupons and is threatened by scammers. Egan is a lovable, socially awkward businessman who is set up with Lena (Emily Watson) by his sisters.
While many may think of “Uncut Gems” as Sandler’s best non-comedic performance, he is fantastic in “Punch-Drunk Love.” His performance feels earnest and authentic, and completely different from his typical roles. The film also features a beautiful Jon Brion score that works well to contrast its intense sound design.
No. 5: “There Will Be Blood”
“There Will Be Blood” is an intense period drama that follows an oil prospector and his feud with a local pastor. Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis) is ruthless in his search for oil and wealth and faces conflict with preacher Eli Sunday (Paul Dano) throughout the film.
Much like “Phantom Thread,” the film features fantastic costumes and an unforgettable Jonny Greenwood score. Dano's portrayal of twins Paul and Eli Sunday is dynamic and high-strung. Day-Lewis’ performance is terrifyingly intense, as his character lets little stand in the way of his quest.