There Will Be Blood is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of the 21st century. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Daniel Day-Lewis, this 2007 epic period drama explores the dark side of the American Dream through the lens of the early 20th-century oil boom. Whether you are looking for ways to watch the movie or want to understand its complex themes, this guide provides everything you need to know about this cinematic masterpiece.
Where to Watch There Will Be Blood
Finding where to stream or rent There Will Be Blood is the first step for many viewers. Because licensing agreements change frequently, availability can vary depending on your location and the current month.
Currently, the film is often available on major streaming platforms. You can typically find it through the following services:
- Subscription Services: Check platforms like Paramount+, MGM+, or Netflix, as the film frequently rotates through these libraries.
- Digital Rental and Purchase: You can rent or buy the film in high definition on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV (iTunes), Google Play Movies, and Vudu.
- Physical Media: For the best visual and audio quality, many enthusiasts prefer the Blu-ray or DVD versions, which often include behind-the-scenes features.
An Overview of the Plot
The story follows Daniel Plainview, a silver miner turned oilman who is driven by an insatiable desire for wealth and power. Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the narrative tracks his journey from a lone prospector to a wealthy oil tycoon.
Plainview travels to Little Boston, California, after hearing about a property where oil is literally seeping out of the ground. He buys up the land and begins a massive drilling operation, but his progress is constantly challenged by local figures and his own internal demons.
The Character of Daniel Plainview
Daniel Plainview is a complex protagonist. He is hardworking and resourceful, but he is also misanthropic and deeply competitive. He views every interaction as a transaction or a competition that he must win.
His relationship with his adopted son, H.W., serves as the emotional core of the film. While Plainview uses the boy to present the image of a “family man” to investors, the genuine affection he feels for H.W. is eventually tested by his obsession with success.
The Conflict with Eli Sunday
The primary antagonist of the film is Eli Sunday, played by Paul Dano. Eli is a young, charismatic preacher who leads the local church in Little Boston. He represents the power of religion, which stands in direct opposition to Plainview’s materialist world.
Their rivalry is the driving force of the movie. Both men are seeking to control the town and its people, one through the promise of economic prosperity and the other through spiritual salvation. Their power struggle leads to several of the most iconic scenes in modern cinema.
Why the Film Is Considered a Masterpiece
There Will Be Blood received eight Academy Award nominations and is frequently cited by critics as a landmark achievement. Several factors contribute to its enduring legacy and high standing in film history.
Daniel Day-Lewis’s Performance
Daniel Day-Lewis won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Daniel Plainview. His performance is famous for its intensity and the unique voice he developed for the character.
Day-Lewis spent months researching the time period and the oil industry to bring a sense of realism to the role. His ability to convey Plainview’s descent into madness and isolation is often cited as one of the greatest acting feats ever recorded.
Direction and Cinematography
Paul Thomas Anderson’s direction is meticulous and grand. He uses long takes and wide shots to capture the vast, harsh landscapes of the American West. The cinematography by Robert Elswit, who won an Oscar for his work here, emphasizes the grit and grime of the oil fields.
The film’s visual style is complemented by a haunting and unconventional score by Jonny Greenwood of the band Radiohead. The music creates a sense of tension and unease that perfectly matches the tone of the story.
Understanding the Key Themes
To fully appreciate the movie, it helps to understand the underlying themes that Paul Thomas Anderson explores throughout the narrative. The film is much more than a historical drama; it is a critique of various social structures.
- Greed and Ambition: The film examines how an unchecked desire for wealth can destroy a person’s humanity and isolate them from society.
- Faith vs. Capitalism: The tension between Eli Sunday and Daniel Plainview represents the historical clash between religious tradition and industrial progress.
- Family and Legacy: Plainview’s struggle to connect with his son and his brother highlights his inability to form meaningful human bonds.
- The Environment: The movie depicts the physical transformation of the landscape as it is torn apart in the search for “black gold.”
The Historical Context of the Oil Boom
There Will Be Blood is loosely based on the 1927 novel “Oil!” by Upton Sinclair. While the characters are fictional, the setting is rooted in the real-life California oil boom of the early 1900s.
During this time, the discovery of oil transformed California from a frontier state into an industrial powerhouse. Independent prospectors, known as “wildcatters,” took massive risks to find oil deposits. The film accurately portrays the dangerous working conditions and the sudden wealth that characterized this era.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the ending of the film mean?
The final scene of the movie is famous for its intensity and the line, “I drink your milkshake!” It represents the total triumph of Plainview’s greed over Eli’s religious influence. By the end, Plainview has achieved total material success but has lost every shred of his humanity, ending up alone in his massive mansion.
Is the story based on a true person?
While the story is fictional, Daniel Plainview is partly inspired by real-life oil tycoons of the era, such as Edward Doheny. Doheny was a central figure in the California oil boom and was involved in the Teapot Dome scandal, reflecting some of the ruthless business practices seen in the film.
Why is the movie called There Will Be Blood?
The title is a biblical reference, suggesting a sense of inevitable violence and sacrifice. It sets an ominous tone for the story, foreshadowing the physical and emotional toll that the characters will endure throughout their pursuit of wealth and power.
Conclusion
There Will Be Blood is a powerful exploration of ambition, conflict, and the American spirit. Its combination of stellar acting, masterful direction, and deep thematic resonance makes it a must-watch for any film enthusiast. By understanding the historical context and the complex characters, you can gain a much deeper appreciation for this cinematic work.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into a modern classic, consider exploring our other articles on cinema history and film recommendations to find your next great viewing experience.