Daniel Day-Lewis Returns to Acting in Collaboration with Son for ‘Anemone’

Daniel Day-Lewis, the acclaimed three-time Oscar-winning actor, is set to return to the big screen following his retirement announcement in 2017. He will star in ‘Anemone’, a film directed by his son, Ronan Day-Lewis. This mark’s Ronan’s debut as a feature film director, with the father-son duo also having co-written the script. The film will explore the intricate dynamics of familial relationships, focusing specifically on fathers, sons, and brothers.

Focus Features and Plan B are backing the project, and the cast will include notable actors such as Sean Bean, Samantha Morton, Samuel Bottomley, and Safia Oakley-Green. While speaking about the collaboration, Peter Kujawski, Chairman of Focus Features, stated, “We could not be more excited to partner with a brilliant visual artist in Ronan Day-Lewis on his first feature film alongside Daniel Day-Lewis as his creative collaborator. They have written a truly exceptional script, and we look forward to bringing their shared vision to audiences.”

‘Anemone’ has engaged a talented creative team including Director of Photography Ben Fordesman, known for ‘Love Lies Bleeding’, Costume Designer Jane Petrie of ‘The Crown’, and Production Designer Chris Oddy, who worked on ‘Zone of Interest’. Universal Pictures International is set to distribute the film internationally.

Ronan Day-Lewis, already an accomplished painter and filmmaker, has showcased his work widely in the United States. His debut international solo exhibition is scheduled to open on October 2 in Hong Kong, with further shows planned in New York City and Los Angeles. There is yet no confirmed release date for ‘Anemone’, though it’s anticipated to be a notable cinematic event, given Daniel Day-Lewis’s involvement.

This return to the silver screen marks Daniel Day-Lewis’s first major acting role since he announced his retirement following 2017’s ‘Phantom Thread’. His acclaimed career includes winning Best Actor Oscars for performances in ‘Lincoln’ (2012), ‘There Will Be Blood’ (2007), and ‘My Left Foot’ (1990). The decision to retire had been publicly shared through his publicist Leslee Dart, where he expressed immense gratitude to his collaborators and audiences.