There Will Be Blood is a 2007 epic drama directed by Paul Thomas Anderson that has earned a reputation as one of the greatest films of the 21st century. Starring Daniel Day-Lewis in an Academy Award-winning performance, the movie explores themes of greed, religion, and the American Dream during the Southern California oil boom. If you are looking for ways to watch this cinematic masterpiece or want to understand why it remains so highly discussed, this guide provides all the essential information.
How to Stream There Will Be Blood
Finding where to watch There Will Be Blood depends on your current streaming subscriptions. Because licensing agreements change frequently, it is helpful to check multiple platforms for the most up-to-date availability.
Subscription Services
As of the current season, There Will Be Blood is often available on platforms that focus on prestige cinema and major studio libraries. You can typically find it on Paramount+ or MGM+ due to its distribution history with Paramount Pictures and Miramax.
- Paramount+: Often includes the film as part of its standard library.
- MGM+: Frequently carries the title for active subscribers.
- Kanorpy or Hoopla: If you have a local library card, you may be able to stream the film for free through these educational platforms.
Digital Rental and Purchase
If the movie is not currently on a subscription service you own, you can rent or buy it digitally. This is often the most reliable way to access the film in high definition or 4K resolution.
- Amazon Prime Video: Offers both rental and digital purchase options.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Known for providing high-quality bitrates for a better viewing experience.
- Google Play Store and YouTube: Easy options for those using Android or Google-based devices.
- Vudu/Fandango at Home: A popular choice for collectors who want to keep their digital library in one place.
Movie Overview and Plot Summary
Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, There Will Be Blood follows the life of Daniel Plainview. Plainview is a silver miner turned oilman who is driven by an intense, misanthropic ambition to succeed at any cost.
The story begins with Plainview discovering oil in Little Boston, California. He buys up land from local families, promising them prosperity and development. However, his singular focus on wealth and power leads to a deteriorating personal life and a growing obsession with outperforming his rivals.
A central conflict in the film is the rivalry between Plainview and Eli Sunday, a young local preacher. Eli represents the power of religious influence, which constantly clashes with Plainview’s industrial greed. This tension drives much of the film’s psychological depth and leads to a memorable, high-stakes conclusion.
Why You Should Watch There Will Be Blood
There are several reasons why this film continues to appear on “must-watch” lists for movie enthusiasts. It is praised for its technical brilliance as much as its storytelling.
An Iconic Lead Performance
Daniel Day-Lewis is widely considered one of the greatest actors in history, and his portrayal of Daniel Plainview is often cited as his best work. He spent months researching the era and developing a unique voice and physical presence for the character. His performance won him the Oscar for Best Actor.
Stunning Cinematography
The film was shot by Robert Elswit, who won an Academy Award for his work on this project. The visuals capture the harsh, beautiful landscape of the American West. The use of natural light and wide shots helps convey the isolation and scale of the oil fields.
A Unique Musical Score
The soundtrack was composed by Jonny Greenwood, the lead guitarist of the band Radiohead. Unlike traditional orchestral scores, Greenwood used dissonant strings and experimental sounds. This creates a sense of unease and tension that perfectly matches the protagonist’s descent into obsession.
Key Characters and Cast
Understanding the characters can help you appreciate the complex dynamics at play in the story. The cast is small but delivers powerful performances throughout.
- Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis): A ruthless oil prospector who values competition over human connection.
- Eli Sunday (Paul Dano): A charismatic but manipulative preacher who seeks to use Plainview’s wealth for his own religious empire.
- H.W. Plainview (Dillon Freasier): Daniel’s adopted son, who serves as the only emotional anchor in Daniel’s life for much of the film.
- Paul Sunday (Paul Dano): Eli’s brother, who initially tips Plainview off about the oil on their family farm.
The Legacy of the “Milkshake” Scene
One of the most famous moments in modern cinema occurs at the very end of the film. Known as the “I drink your milkshake” scene, it has become a significant part of pop culture. While it has been the subject of many internet memes, the scene is a serious and chilling culmination of the film’s themes.
The dialogue was actually based on real-world transcripts from 1920s congressional hearings regarding the Teapot Dome scandal. It illustrates the concept of “drainage,” where an oil well on one property can suck oil from an adjacent property. In the film, it serves as a metaphor for Daniel Plainview’s total dominance over his enemies.
Practical Tips for Your Viewing Experience
To get the most out of There Will Be Blood, consider these tips for your first or repeat viewing:
- Watch on a Large Screen: The cinematography is expansive and deserves the largest screen available to you.
- Use Good Speakers: The score and sound design are integral to the atmosphere. If possible, use headphones or a dedicated sound system.
- Eliminate Distractions: The film is a “slow burn” with a runtime of over two and a half hours. It requires your full attention to appreciate the character development.
- Research the Era: Having a basic understanding of the California oil boom of the early 1900s can provide helpful context for the plot.
Conclusion
There Will Be Blood is more than just a historical drama; it is a profound character study and a critique of unchecked ambition. Whether you are watching it for Daniel Day-Lewis’s legendary performance or the masterful direction of Paul Thomas Anderson, it is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. By using the streaming and rental options mentioned above, you can experience this landmark of American cinema today. For more guides on classic films and where to find the best digital content, explore our other articles on entertainment and streaming tips.