User Score
7.5 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 929 Ratings

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  1. JoshC
    May 11, 2008
    9
    This is truly a work of symphonic aspirations and masterful execution. Anderson's superb filmmaking is complemented throughout by Radiohead guitarist Jonny Greenwood's excellent score
  2. AnthonyS.
    May 12, 2008
    10
    The movie was extraordinary. After three watches I can see how it is truley a character examination of Plainview and his realistic, darkly comic, and brutal interaction with the world around him. Anyone bashing the soundtrack obviously has little appreciation for real music, and while Johnny Greenwood may not have done the best job, his minimalist and serialist influences can still be heard and appreciated. True work of art, none of the dumbed down bullshit so popular today. Expand
  3. JackB
    May 12, 2008
    6
    It was good for the most part but just dragged on, the story became uninteresting and just plain bad at the end. I think its yet another movie where the critics thought "wow if we see this as a 10/10 we might be considered as lovers of real film" when really, it should all be down to how much you enjoy it as an individual.
  4. JasonC.
    May 16, 2008
    10
    I thought Daniel day lewis was spectacular. He certainly deserved the award for best actor, and I thought this was easily the second best film of the year, behind No Country.
  5. ChrisJ.
    May 16, 2008
    10
    If you think this movie (and old country) was too "boring" for you, why don't you go watch some mindless BS that doesn't take an ounce of brain matter to enjoy. Seriously, there are two kinds of people my friends. Those that enjoy using their brains and actually thinking about what they are watching, and those that watch forest gump every weekend. Oh, and if you don't like the music in this film, thats a pretty good indication that you have garbage taste in music, too. Expand
  6. MattR.
    May 17, 2008
    10
    A truly excellent movie, one with a compelling story, a musical score that casts this movie in a layer of impenetrable darkness, and Daniel Day-Lewis in one of the most striking performances I've ever seen. This movie is one of the best of 2007, and probably one of the best for a good while to come.
  7. JacobM.
    May 19, 2008
    10
    Definitely a must-see. Day-Lewis explores his character yet again perfectly.
  8. RoryP.
    May 21, 2008
    10
    A slow film that is remarkably hypnotic for reasons beyond this viewer, this is an essential american film. Whether its greenwood's score or Thomas Andersons inspired direction (which was always remarkable, but now feels like it is no longer trying to impress) the erriness of the film overwhelms, and stays with the viewer for days after. Thoroughly recommended.
  9. CaptainSpaulding
    May 25, 2008
    4
    To paraphrase Phil Hartman as Frank Sinatra, "What is all this crap?!" If not for the excellent acting of Daniel Day-Lewis, this movie would be horrid. If not for Mr. Day-Lewis, I'd give his a negative number if possible. A horrid movie and 2 hours of your life that you'll never get back! Quick advice? RENT SOMETHING ELSE!
  10. MikeB.
    May 26, 2008
    10
    Those who don't give this film a 10 undoubtedly have never heard of Arthur Schopenhauer. The film goes well beyond the pathologies of the American experience or even the juxtaposition of the sacred and secular thirst for power to probe the terrors of life and human alienation.
  11. SO
    May 27, 2008
    9
    Very good but could use just a little more action to keep the suspense audience interested longer.
  12. JB
    May 27, 2008
    5
    Mediocre at best. Great camerawork and great atmosphere, but the plot drags on... and on.... and on... 2h38m could have easily been condensed in a 1h20m movie. The music is probably the worst I have ever heard. I don't remember ever being bothered by a musical score, but the screeching and scratching got old really fast and did not seem to have any relation to the movie. It sounded like they ran out of money and decided to cut the music budget down to one guy with a violin and a microphone. Very forgettable movie.. Cannot believe it has a 92 score on metacritic. Expand
  13. JeremyP.
    May 30, 2008
    5
    The only reason it gets a five is because the actors performed well. Only problem was that the story itself leaves you wanting. It's not a good thing when you can tell the whole story when trying to just explain the plot. "Bad guy becomes oil man." That's basically the whole movie. Nothing more needs to be said. The only reason to watch it is just to find out what makes him a bad guy. There's no redeeming qualities to any of the characters. In fact, it's simply an exercise in a cynical worldview, only looking at the worst in the oil industry and religion with no counterbalance. I think that's why Hollywood ate it up. Anything that focuses on the fringe aspects of "hocus pocus" religion or posits that big business is inherently greedy and rooted in evil intentions is immediately considered Oscar material it seems, and this has both! But, as I said before, the acting was the only redeeming quality and Daniel Day Lewis was definitely deserving of his best actor nod. But it's just a shame that his great performance was shackled by such a hopeless, aimless story. Let me put it another way, the only people praising this STORY are doing so because they feel it makes them smart. These are the same people that pay $15,000 for an impressionist painting by a 5 year old. Expand
  14. ErikM.
    Jun 2, 2008
    10
    Complex character,secretly alcoholic, mean, and spiteful as he smiles to get what he wants, just like president Bush.
  15. Nigel.
    Jun 2, 2008
    10
    Wow, an intelligent thought provoking film. All too rare these days. The central character played brilliantly by Day is one of the most complex and believable in cinema history. The story is thoroughly absorbing and well written too and the conflict between all the protagonists leads to an interesting conclusion about human nature, greed and what makes people truly happy. Beats the pants off anything Will Smith and his multi-million dollar CGI bore-fests could ever hope to acheive. Cinematic greatness. Expand
  16. VeikkoH.
    Jun 2, 2008
    10
    This film deserves high scores because it's something fresh and brave compared to today's other films. It's in many ways like Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey": the score, cinematography and the bizarre stripped-down ending all match to "2001". It won't certainly entertain action freaks, but for friends of minimalism and originality it will be quite addictive.
  17. ChrisM.
    Jun 8, 2008
    9
    Amazing movie, script, acting. Shocking, tense, gripping..I could NOT stop watching this film.
  18. JasonE.
    Jun 14, 2008
    10
    One of the best movies in recent memory.
  19. JA.
    Jun 14, 2008
    5
    This movie is a one trick pony that quickly tires midway through. I found myself looking at my watch more than the screen. The only thing thinner than the plot are the characters. What a disappointment.
  20. BillyP.
    Jun 17, 2008
    10
    I'm not entirely sure why but this really is one of my favorite movies of all time. Thats all I have to say about it, excellent film.
  21. Mark
    Jun 18, 2008
    4
    Only thing good about it was the acting. It was boring. I was expecting some kind of twist at the end or for the movie to rap up with some kind of moral theme, but the movie was pointless.
  22. SinjinnN.
    Jun 18, 2008
    10
    This is a love it or hate it film. a lot of people complain about charachter development and plot but i think there is plenty of charachter development , it just doesnt go the way they expect or want. the plot is also not contrived , it isnt a mystery , an action flick or a comedy or a romance, it is instead very original . the truth of of it is that this is a great film with a great cast which some movie goers will hate because it doesnt funnel you down a familiar and comfortable and contrived plot. Expand
  23. WesLyons
    Jul 14, 2008
    10
    An American classic. There has been a lot of complaining that the film is boring, pointless, and the ending: horrendous; but what those that think that fail to realize is that this is a definitive character study. The film is not constructed on the basis of telling a linear story, it is merely a 2.5 hour analysis on the deranged persona of Daniel Plainview. The running time, for me, is enough time to fully flesh out this strange character and director P.T. Anderson doesn't waste his directorial skills on doing so. As a result, we get a relentless, at times sadistic, tragic American-dream-tale of a film. By all means, the film comes out strange and offbeat at times, but that does not deny the brilliance of the acting, directing and cinematography -- all of which are wisely used in this landmark of a film. Expand
  24. frederikdewilde
    Jul 14, 2008
    9
    TWBB is a magnificent film with strokes of genius. The incredible performance of DDLewis and the tantalizing and unnerving soundtrack of Johnny Greenwood is just amazing. The strokes of genius in the movie can be found in all the choices made, frame by frame, word by word, step by step, silences and the characters eye to eye contacts. Goddard said that cinema is 24f of truth. TWBB is a film that questions these 24f from the beginning to the end. I am surely going to see it again and again although i had think that the the film struggles to find closure, but what a great film! Expand
  25. SeanM
    Jul 17, 2008
    10
    Honestly, this movie was fantastic. Unforunately I get the feeling that some people who went to this movie were expecting more blood perhaps? This movie is somewhat slow, but if you really pay attention you can pick up on the countless parallels between the oil industry and religious society. Great acting, great theme, great film.
  26. SteveL.
    Jul 20, 2008
    6
    I was disappointed in this movie. It's theme was about a violent, mean, miserable, disturbed man. I saw no redeeming value in it. It was dark and depressing. Great acting. Crummy story line.
  27. VinceV
    Aug 8, 2008
    9
    It seems as though many people posting negative comments here are overlooking the numerous qualities that makes this probably the best film of the year; these people are just venting their frustrations that they do not have the capacity to enjoy such a brilliant film. The film is gripping, with sublime acting from Daniel Day-Lewis & Paul Dano in particular, and a score from Johnny Greenwood that really adds to the tension and atmosphere. The cinematography, from Robert Elswit, alone makes it a must see. Expand
  28. GrantC.
    Aug 14, 2008
    9
    Fantastic movie. I was worried about whether I liked it or not, but it enthralled me, and I actually saw past what some call a bad ending and saw a great moral lesson. Greed and selfihness lead to misery and despair in the end. The musical scores were fantastic, done by none other than the genius Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead (my favorite musician ever is Greenwood, favorite band is Radiohead). People like Jeff B. obviously don't know what the intentins of the scores were. It wasn't supposed to be music, but more a backing to support the escalation of the film's suspense. Expand
  29. WatermelanjelloP.
    Sep 2, 2008
    8
    I really enjoyed this movie, and I am not "going with the critics" as some may accuse. Sure, there it was drawn out at times and it could be dry, but this is still a great film. The cinematography was beautiful, the acting top notch, and it was ambitious to say the least.
  30. TomM.
    Sep 14, 2008
    8
    Those familiar with the past work of Daniel Day-Lewis will not be surprised by his stunning performance in THERE WILL BE BLOOD. During the film I found myself comparing him with some of our classic masters, from Barrymore to Brando. There are also excellent performances by many others in the cast, including Paul Dano as the primitive country minister and Kevin J. O'Connor as the (fraudulent?) half-brother. The story, based on an Upton Sinclair novel, is raw, rivetting, and unusual, and gradually becomes recognizable as driven and ruthless capitalist Americana. I hope to get to the library (or a favorite used bookstore) one of these days to see if I can find this 20th century gem sitting unread on a dusty shelf. Incidentally, the score and soundtrack by Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead is innovative, captivating, and, at times, seems to be suggesting the loose cannon we are following; unfortunately, there were moments when I thought the audio was attempting to upstage the visual. Expand
  31. SteveS.
    Oct 3, 2008
    4
    Calling this a good movie is an insult to good movies. I wanted to like it, and DD Lewis is always entertaining, but let's face it - the movie is ultimately a failure.
  32. IainF.
    Oct 9, 2008
    10
    This film is amazing. A relentless, brutal, gripping, psycologichally moving film. This and No Country For Old Men were two of the best films I've ever seen, the only difference in the two is that There Will Be Bloo has a distinct lead character. And this is Daniel Day Lewis' character, Daniel Plainview, a relentless and brutal oil man who cares about no one but himself and his own image. The anti-hero he plays is a interesting and complicated character, but whats most intriguing about this film is DDL's performance. If you've seen any of his other films such as My Left Foot, you'll be familiar with his work. He's absolutely amazing. However, after viewing metacritic and seeing the user reviews on NCFOM and TWBB, I realised something. These films I thought as brilliant aren't perfect. Far from it. They have one gigantic floor, and this is... Dumb people. Pathetic people who don't have the patience and brain capacity to appreciate the films magnificance and deeply moving narrative. They can't appreciate the script, the characters and there motives, the cinematography or anything. They just think, oh there hasn't been anyone slaughtered to death, or any sexy women yet, so i'm gonna give this film a zero. Think about it. It makes sense. And who are you gonna believe, film critics, who aren't dumb and can actually appreciate the film in it's entiretym or audiences who find anything other than porn stale, dull and boring. This film is a work of brilliance... Unmissable. Expand
  33. NikkoC
    Oct 16, 2008
    9
    Mark's post is barely good enough for one entry, let alone two identicals... please remove it (all?). Mine can take one's place :) Anyway... the movie is a moral study on greed etc, yes, but Eli is not a good character either. It has as much to say about the greed and the destructiveness (on the mind especially... as it narrows...) of religion as it does capitalism. The soundtrack is great (sorry Britney was booked Mark)... the performance of Day-Lewis, especially in scenes like when he is revealed as crying in the light of the passing train etc, is not just very good, but the best acting performance (try for a second to picture anyone else pulling it off, or even being remotely convincing for that matter) of this century thus far (only Bardem's in NCFOM comes close). So good, that it outweighs the film's qualities in the end and thus it gets a 9/10. It's ballsiness, courage and intelligence is very heartwarming to someone used to dumbing-down to supposedly high-grade film-making which is largely underwhelming, so, thank you Mr Anderson. Most of all though, I wanted to comment ont he fact that this is clearly not as good, nor ironically is it as well-reviewed as, No Country For Old Men (winner of best picture in the same year and category as this higher rated - on metacritic - film)..... but it is 92 to NCFOM's 91. This is a total injustice, but has been directly brought about by ONE MAN - arrogant, self-obsessed, joyless, hypocritical, ascetic, space-wasting loser - Jonathan Rosenbaum.... he gave it 32. Sure Jon, it's not Bio-Dome you dick. So that even though this film gets lots of 70s and 60s and is poorly reviewed by several critics.... it is NCFOM's consistent 100s, 90s and a handful of 80s that gets bombed by a loser who needs to get laid and a politically-obsessed, self-appointed cock. Metacritic should drop the lowest two reviews to account for such unforgivable pretentiousness. They are not reviewing films, they are soapboxing, banish them. NCFOM doesn't have your pound of flesh Rosenbaum, so brush that chip off your shoulder buddy, or else FO..... amateur. Expand
  34. AdamK.
    Nov 28, 2008
    10
    Daniel Day Lewis is brilliant.
  35. AmyC
    Jan 3, 2009
    9
    I give it a 9 because the acting deserves a 10 and the story an 8. A well-deserved Oscar for Daniel Day-Lewis. This is definitely a movie which makes one think. If you're looking for a shallow movie that provides 2 hours straight of non-stop action & entertainment, you're in the wrong theatre. The name 'There Will Be Blood' is merely a metaphor, representing D. Plainview's sadistic & relentless pursuit of fame & fortune. The portrayal of this character -- achieved by both the acting & the storyline -- was so successful that I had to look up from websites whether Daniel Plainview was indeed a real character. Overall speaking, I would say that this highly-recommended movie is one which deserves all wins & awards, whereas 'No Country For Good Men' was way over-rated. Expand
  36. Mack
    Jan 6, 2009
    7
    Not a movie you will necessarily enjoy watching but Lewis' performance is amazing. You won't soon forget it.
  37. BenM.
    Jan 12, 2009
    9
    Great that there are still directors out there who aren't either playing to the lowest common denominator or just hitting the same old emotional cues.
  38. russellj.
    Jan 21, 2009
    9
    There will be blood divides opinion. Some people say it's painfully slow and has nothing to say. Others say it's a masterpiece which shows that ambition and wealth can be your own undoing if you are not rich in forming meaningful bonds with people around you. If it did have nothing to say then the Christian majority wouldn't have been so disapproving of the nihilist tone of the movie and it's negative view of the church (and capitalism and pretty much everything else). The film is slow admittedly and as sudden jumps in the narrative which leads the audience to infer what has happened. Daniel Day Lewis is incredible and carries the movie. I love the sedate pace it reminds me when epic movies had faith in their audience and not to barrage them with over the top CGI explosions. The final scene in Plainviews mansion in the bowling alley will go down as one of the best and most random final scenes ever. Expand
  39. JimmyJam
    Mar 3, 2009
    7
    Not as bad of a movie as some people are saying on this board, but definitely overrated. I'm not sure what exactly the critics were thinking on this film and No Country, but both movies failed to deliver. I will say that Lewis gives a phenomenal performance though.
  40. ShaunW
    Mar 7, 2009
    10
    This movie is a breathtaking tale of a man torn apart by his own insensitivities and lust for money. It shows the true side of the era,. How ruthless you had to be to make it in America and in contrast to the current war for oil. Daniel Day Lewis delivers his lines superbly and mask his former characters perfectly. Don't base your opinion on a guy who writes sux.
  41. FoogR
    Mar 23, 2009
    6
    This movie had some outstanding moments and some very well designed dialogue. Unfortunately, the story and conclusion truly leave something to be desired, the main character, Danial Plainview, doesn't develop grow or shrink over the course of the movie, and doesn't change much at all; however, Daniel Day Lewis performs outstandingly, which may bother or confuse some because of the odd contrast. The score will annoy some, but it is actually a brilliant work with a Bela Barok style that will disturb and intrigue if studied. Overall, the movie was good quality, but the plot and characters were weak if not aggravating. Expand
  42. aarons
    Mar 30, 2009
    9
    I could give this a ten, but I'd have to watch it again to decide. The slow pace may turn some away, but I found that, in the end, it turned out to be a very good movie. One question, though. WHAT'S WITH THE AMERICAN RATING? How can this movie possibly be rated R?
  43. NathanK.
    Jul 30, 2009
    4
    Boring and contrived... one of the most horrid movies i've ever seen. the best part was the credits.
  44. JimmyM
    Aug 8, 2009
    10
    I can understand the people that didn't like the movie- but most of these negative reviews are ridiculous. I'm sure everyone who wants their "3 hours" will spend it watching "Friends" re-runs ad "The Fast and The Furious". This is the best movie of the decade. It just goes to show that audiences these days don't care about great films. Sad.
  45. LeoB
    Aug 12, 2009
    10
    Anyone who deems this work of art a 'movie' is truly mistaken - a film of the highest caliber.
  46. ChristelleV.
    Sep 19, 2009
    10
    Existentialist and honest. Mesmerizing. After the 3rd time watching I am again left disquieted - just as I should be.
  47. CurtisB
    Nov 24, 2009
    10
    Probably the best piece cinema out of the U.S. in the last 5 years.
  48. JonathanS.
    Nov 30, 2009
    10
    I would have to say that this is quite possibly one of the finest films I have ever seen. And to Jimmy M... bravo. I could not have said it better myself.
  49. TPSK_Dual
    Dec 3, 2009
    9
    On verge of souding hyperbolic, I regard "There will be blood" as unheralded modern masterpiece in tradition of John Huston and John Ford. Done in vein of a character study in proportions of Welles "Citizen Kane". DDL's performance merits engagement on its own, he functions as a Vehicle for an extremely ambitious film with an aggressively driven protagonist, Intense to a great degree, and yet with nuance no less important. The film is centered on the dawn of 20th century, with themes resonating to present-day. Something that works on different levels. Starting with personal & cultural decadency, the facade, and overblown- uprightness of the nation through two important factions of it. A bold framework, and a denouement that answers and questions in equal measures. Qualities akin to "Apocalypse now" in that respect. "There will be blood" carries a polemical subtext on Oil and Religion, Capitalism and Evangelism - the fraudulence of it all. In a Dickensian quality (not narrative or thematic methods), presents failed human beings. With that, the ability to "attack but not necessarily antagonize" is achieved. At least to yours truly, it is less problematic. The narrative is NOT a mere carrier for such reflections. However, by canons of film criticism, it is essential the social and political persuasions of the creation had to be dissected. The very absence of such a statement is in itself a political viewpoint. The filmmaker cannot hide. One couldn't make a film on carpentry without churning woods. It's a simple story, Oil prospector in Daniel Plainview, and a young priest, Eli, are two-fold manifestation of essentially the same. Daniel Plainview is flamed by burning desire to "hunt" for gold, by fermentation of his blood & sweat. As a characteristic baron/salesman, connives people for cheap off their land to drill oil. Eli is of ignoble ilk, connives people with false prophecies and superstition. they are both failed human beings. A film theorist once said films are moving pictures with accompanying sound. The story and themes are excuses to entice & indulge the audience. There will be blood provides enough to relish the experience. The Oil drilling has never been captured cinematically and as thrillingly as in show here. This being the primal period of drilling, the film stays true to some of the medieval methods, with stew-pans and sauce-pots. An unreliable Pumpjack made with manual shafts. There will Be casualties, but the drive of the protagonist remains unmatched for treasure. In that, it is no different to "Treasure of Sierra Madre" and many great Hollywood epics from 30-40s. There is one major set-piece where the fire gulfs from ground. Visual metaphors are aplenty in this film. Yet, such cinematic devices and symbolism are not aberrations to the narrative. A final word on DDL's performance to end this writeup. His rendition is probably the best of modern era. When we see him as aging Plainview and transformation to an Ogre, we are convinced he had gone through all the dangers and asperities of hands-on Oil drilling and failed human connection. His rough edged surface is backed with other subtleties. His reaction, introspections, and secretive quirks in private, especially to his son & faux-brother, are utter genius. This film also makes use of father-son thematics like other PTA films. Such nuance in acting. Expand
  50. DW
    Dec 8, 2009
    4
    I loved this movie. I loved the photography. The character development. The realism. The premise. All for what? For nothing? Do not make a film if you do not know where the plot is going to go. The plot - goes nowhere. There will be blood? There won't be blood - at least no blood that has any meaning. If you expect to see a good man become evil you will not. If you expect to see an evil man be reformed you will not. If you expect to see an evil man get his comeuppance you will not. If you expect people to suffer terribly or prosper wonderfully, you will be mistaken in your estimation. You instead get: Daniel Day Lewis: a cranky, miserable miser... who is... a cranky miserable miser. The only person who really loses the plot in the film is the screenwriter. There is no plot. And this is why this is not a film, but a series of still of beautiful countryside. There is no plot. Expand
  51. TheMan
    Dec 17, 2009
    10
    Undoubtedly the greatest film of 2007, and perhaps one of the greatest films of all time. There Will Be Blood is a damning portrayal of the horrifying consequences of greed, obsession and competition in a time where oil was worth gold dust. Day Lewis captures the true essence and meaning behind the film and conveys it in a superbly astonishing display very few can acheive. Slow burning, yes. Well worth it, most definetly. Just one of those films you will look back on and underline as the highest calibre of modern motion picture. Expand
  52. JimH
    Dec 20, 2009
    10
    An absolute masterpiece. There Will Be Blood is sure to make cinema history.
  53. JohnW
    Dec 24, 2009
    7
    While I see the points that they were trying to make about power, capitalism, and religion, I just wasn't very entertained while watching it. In my mind, that what makes this movie good, but No Country For Old Men great.
  54. DanielP
    Jan 2, 2010
    9
    people like, Wad M, find it bring because there childish, bitch. As for R N just because Day Lewis is in it doesnt mean its good. PT anderson is a very good director. and critics look for evry aspect. and whats more boring than oil and rocks....the animal known as your mother.
  55. AndyG.
    Jan 13, 2010
    10
    Gripping, compelling stuff - for the right audience.
  56. MatthewH
    Jan 21, 2010
    10
    Daniel Day Lewis delivers the best acting performance I've ever seen in a film. Great storytelling and plot. There will be Blood reminds me of Citizen Kane in that its about a business men whose only ambition in life is to to amass wealth, but at the end of thier lives, their money is all that they have. One of of my top 10 movies of all time.
  57. AricM
    Feb 6, 2010
    10
    There is so much to take away from this film. But it does require a great deal of intelligence and emotional depth to appreciate. If you are an emotionally blocked person or have trouble concentrating on things - this is not a movie for you. One of the best films ever made.
  58. AaronG
    Mar 4, 2010
    9
    If you enjoy slow films that tell a story, get academy awards, and start internet memes (a la "I drink your milkshake"), this is a must-see.
  59. KidA
    Mar 14, 2010
    9
    @Robert M - "the movie failed to make me care about an ambitious, cold hearted oil tycoon" - that's the point, you moron. The film clearly isn't trying to make you care about him - he's a totally irredeemable character, and a great one at that. Also, lay off the exclamation marks. A true modern great.
  60. JoshP
    Mar 19, 2010
    10
    After finally watching this movie, i can see why it is so highly claimed. Paul Thomas Anderson directed his masterpiece around Daniel Plainfield, and Daniel Day-Lewis created a character I could watch for hours on end.
  61. DerickK
    Mar 20, 2010
    9
    I believe I am the only person on earth who watches this movie for fun. I've seen it 8 times.
  62. CraigT
    Mar 24, 2010
    10
    First let me say some may see this movie as a slow starter but that is deliberate and highlights key themes within the film. Brilliant-brilliant performance by Day-Lewis, truly one of the best acting performance I have ever seen a genius method actor. The soundtrack fantastic from Radiohead guitarist Jonny Greenwood, he has re-inforced his musical talents and understanding a fantastic score. This film has a mighty strong story and that is what holds it above other films. Expand
  63. Aug 14, 2010
    10
    Paul Thomas Anderson is the best minimalistic director out, in my opinion. Most of his movies have been very simple but they have deeper messages in them. Definitely in my top 10. Amazing movie.
  64. Aug 16, 2010
    10
    A modern masterpiece. This is Anderson's best film. Day-Lewis and Dano are both stunning. Greenwood's soundtrack is hypnotizing and phenomenal. The visuals are dazzling if not completely hallucinating. The black humor is outrageously funny and brilliantly placed so that only the most astute viewer and can notice it. One of the best films of the 2000's.
  65. Sep 13, 2010
    8
    Oil that is, Black Gold, Texas Tea.
    Daniel Day Lewis is "into" oil & makes his fortune, sometimes at the misfortune of others.
    Weighs in at just over two & a half hours but I didn't think it dragged too much & the authenticity of the film is superb.
    As to be expected, Lewis is brilliant but so is Paul Dano as Eli.
    Not to everyone's taste but I really enjoyed it.
    I'm finished!
  66. Sep 19, 2010
    10
    Amazing. Two days in a row, and two days of incredible movies that portray humans at their most raw. Still afflicted with Oscar fever, I followed up my viewing of The Reader with There Will Be Blood, which won Daniel Day-Lewis an Oscar for Best Actor last year.

    Gritty, cold and, at times, cruel, this period piece set in the late 1800s through the Great Depression, There Will Be Blood is,
    at its core, about the business of...well, business, versus the business of salvation. Neither are proven to be better, or worse, as the case may be, than the other except for maybe, in the end, Daniel Day-Lewis' character is shown to be more exact in his evil, while his moral counterpart, Eli, is shown to be naive in his selfishness.

    Paul Thomas Anderson continues his track record of unique and heavily character-driven films, in the vein of Boogie Nights, Magnolia and Punch-Drunk Love. As usual, his characters are immensely flawed and capable of the most atrocious of actions. He's quickly becoming a master of creating characters who actually do what only our darkest moments think of doing, if then.

    As usual, Daniel Day-Lewis is outstanding in his role, commanding immense strength on the screen. The Oscar was well-deserved.

    My only real criticism of the film is that the portrayal of Eli's religious con-man being made into the weak, whiny hypocrite that he becomes, comes across more as a personal indictment of Anderson's rather than an necessary element of the movie, specifically Eli's senseless murder in the end. Unlike the seemingly objectivity of The Reader, There Will Be Blood shamelessly overexaggerates the stupidity of the congregation (and, believe me, I cannot believe I'm saying that since I generally believe Christianity to be silly). If Eli is proven to be a great fool, what then of the congregation who put such faith in him? It rubbed me the wrong way, but didn't make me enjoy the film less. Perhaps portraying Daniel as an empty, soul-less man is meant to counter the naivete of his enemy.
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  67. Nov 3, 2010
    10
    Very politically minded, intelligent, brutal and unapologetic. Daniel Day Lewis owns this film and deservedly won the Oscar for it. Great music, beautiful settings but it is always the story that triumphs with a finale that feels right. Much more satisfying than No Country For Old Men.
  68. Dec 16, 2010
    10
    Great movie... original feel to movie in general and for certain in DDL's performance. Loved it and refreshing compared to the majority of movies made these days.

    Best of all time... no ... but only 1-2 movies a year are made that are worth watching..... I'm so glad they are... I'm running out of old classics to watch lol.
  69. Mar 16, 2011
    8
    What an amazing film. Daniel Day Lewis is haunting. Each of the 156 minutes from the initial pioneering scenes to the final Kubrick-esque moments dazzles in it's intensity. Meanwhile, the loss of consciousness, of mind, of vision, of sanity, is so subtle, is so delicate and unassuming that hours after the final credits have rolled one can only blink and say 'wow'
  70. Mar 12, 2011
    9
    The films of Paul Thomas Anderson seem to polarise folks - I'm one who loves his films but plenty of people don't. That said this film is quite a departure from his previous work - no large ensemble cast, no contemporary / modern setting, very little humour, relatively sparse dialogue. This has the same feeling of unease as 'Punch Drunk Love' largely due to Johnny Greenwood's (of Radiohead fame) brilliant / unconventional score (incidental music might be more accurate). Daniel Day-Lewis plays the protagonist Daniel Plainview very adeptly - a great psychological study into the unique individuals that prosper in times of explosive industrial growth.

    A great and unique movie that will surely be recognized as a classic in years to come
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  71. Jun 22, 2011
    0
    Absolutely awful movie! I saw this movie because there was nothing else on and to say I didn't like it is an understatement. Truthfully the entire movie is uninteresting, boring and supremely stupid.
  72. Sep 10, 2011
    10
    an amazing film, some stunning acting from all inviolved and some of the best lines ever in a movie (milkshake!), people complaing that it lacks action or nothign happens needs to get a clue and perhaps grow up a little.....this movie doesnt hold you by the hand , it requires a little effort but gives you maximum reward.
  73. Sep 12, 2011
    10
    There Will Be Blood has to be the best movie of the decade, and an all-time favorite, and the man who helps the movie be as brilliant is Daniel Day-Lewis. He's that kind of actor that makes any film worth seeing. He played a staggering role in Scorsese's "Gangs of New York", and then makes an even better attempt in this. Paul Dano plays the supporting character as a young preacher, and boy was he perfect for that role. He should of won "best supporting actor", but at least Day-Lewis won. There Will Be Blood is a story about an oil man named Daniel Plainview and his adopted son, H.W, who make their way across California, trying to dig out every last bit of oil they can find. Having met by a young man, saying that there was loads of oil on their land. Having to travel miles to their small home, they lied and said that they were hunting for quail. After a while of the hunting, H.W found the oil. Then, when having dinner with the family, Plainview brings up the oil found on their land and asks if he could buy the land for three thousand dollars, and the family immediately says yes. But one of the family's sons, named Eliot, who's a young preacher for the towns church, disagrees and asks for ten thousand. This starts a rival between the oil man and the preacher, which will create loads of problems for both, that will also cause murder.

    This film may be my favorite movie of all time. This also had some parts that gives the movie resemblance to Kubrik's classic, "2001: A Space Odyssey", but like a western version, with the long stretch of the violin, and everything else quiet. I don't really find this slow at all, the whole time it was exciting and really interesting to watch. I bought the DVD without ever watching it before (though I knew it was going to be good), and now I can easily say that I made a great decision. Please watch this movie! I guarantee that if you have a passion for film or a huge fan of Day-Lewis, you'll love it!
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  74. Nov 22, 2011
    9
    Another example of why Daniel Day Lewis is the best actor alive today. He delivers a powerful performance in this film and he is perfect from start to finish. The entire film is rather interesting but it can be a bit dull in some parts and make it a little bit of a suffer to get through. However great performances by the cast and overall interest in the plot will keep you satisfied till the end.
  75. Jan 5, 2012
    9
    First off, Daniel Day Lewis is untouchable (as always) and makes the film that much greater from his performance alone. There Will Be Blood gives us a cold hard look at the world of Oil Drilling and I loved it. It can be a little boring at times ,god knows the run time takes away from the film a bit, but the majority of the film is simply amazing and more then makes up for it.
  76. Feb 3, 2012
    10
    Best movie of the 2000 decade. This sentence will fill the remaining character requirement which is 150 characters long...................................................
  77. Mar 13, 2012
    1
    I still am baffled at how anyone thinks this is a good movie. I have watched it twice now and both times I was so bored and confused as to what the meaning of this turd was, I had to fight to stay awake. I get the plot, but the whole moral dilemma thing just escapes me. I mean, in real life who the hell acts like these people do? The only positive things I got from this movie were the visuals and the acting of Daniel Day-Lewis. Other than that, avoid this movie unless you want to be bored to tears and pissed off at the ending. Expand
  78. Mar 31, 2012
    3
    No matter how superb that acting was and the overall quality of the film.....it is wayyyyyyyyyy too long and pointless. It was the farthest thing from a gripping movie. There were some very good scenes and music, but come on....so boring.
  79. Mar 31, 2012
    2
    The only reason this movie gets a 2 is because of its acting other than that zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. I almost cried because i was so bored. I rather watch grass grow in my backyard. What a disgrace this movie is and it doesn't deserve to be up for best picture.
  80. Jun 1, 2012
    10
    There isn't much more I can say to add to the heap of praise that this move received, so let me just say that everyone who has called this one of the best movies ever made is telling the truth. Also, I want to just mention the amazing Score by Johnny Greenwood. It's hauntingly beautiful and it sets the mood perfectly. It's a shame it was ruled ineligible for an Academy Award.
  81. Jun 6, 2012
    9
    I am probably applauding this film more than it deserves, but this is my type of movie. Paul T. Anderson's direction of the film is well done which should not be a surprise considering he has been called "one of American film's modern masters". The style of atmosphere Robert Elswit creates is perfect for the films setting. The script is very good. And the acting is more or so average. Daniel D. Lewis does however, a job of portraying mineral prospector Daniel Plainview, still a bigger expectation from him is held after watching Gangs of New York. Watching Daniel's relationship with his boy, especially towards the end, really makes the film's audience care for the characters. Expand
  82. Jul 2, 2012
    9
    Certainly eveyone is entitled to their opinion, and some may be praising it just to jump on the bandwagon. But I think there is some ridiculous accusations concerning this film. It must have been doing something right since almost every single magazine, newspaper, or awards show hailed it as one of the best films of 2007 and one of the best films of the decade. Just because a film isn't exactly what you expected doesn't mean you have to **** all over it. The film has a moral and a point! But it seems everyone here needs the film to shove it right in their face so they don't have to think. Pathetic. And I forgot to rate it last time sorry. Expand
  83. Aug 9, 2012
    10
    One of the best films ever made. The intrigue of the characters; the rich themes and the great acting add up to an experience that has only been matched by few films. Sight and sound pisses me off because it seems as though they ignore all the great newer films to make themselves feel sophisticated. Mulholland drive was the only movie in the top 50 from the 2000s. What a crock!
  84. Sep 14, 2012
    8
    It is definitely a slow movie, but that's life - some things are fast and some things are slow. But both can have an equal impact. I have seen it 3 or 4 times now - I find it is quite mesmorising and the story compelling. Daniel Day Lewis is really sublime in his role, and I found the final scene to be absolute magic!
    It is more bizarre than anything else, with the story taking some odd t
    urns at times and playing strange scenarios which you don't expect. Which maybe why I enjoyed it so much - it seemed fresh, it didn't spoon feed me the standard film format and put all it's A,Bs ad Cs in the right order. It was 2 years after release that I watched this, and I didn't read any reviews before I did watch it. Just because it is long and slow with odd music and even stranger dialogue, doesn't necessarily mean it is pretentious - but if you look for it to be, you will most likely find it will be. I did not, I just found it interesting and enjoyable. But then I found the hangover boring so what do I know. Expand
  85. Oct 7, 2012
    7
    While I agree with most of what everyone who loves this movie says about it, I do feel that it doesn't succeed in a couple of areas where the true greats do. If there is such a thing as too much ambiguity, Blood has it. We learn so little of Plainview that when he does interact with other characters it is impossible to know when he is lying or telling the truth. This gives Plainview little motivation as a character. In contrast to the people who love this movie I feel this is why some people find this movie boring. If we had just the smallest amount of back story on Plainview I think what he does would make this movie much more interesting to those that find it boring. Although Anderson does give us very small glimpses into his characters motivation in his movies, we fail to get even that small glimpse with Plainview. Of course on the positive side Anderson has created another set of characters that stay with you for weeks after viewing the movie. He moves his characters through these worlds he creates in such a way that we become entranced with the characters and the atmosphere. Of course Lewis is brilliant and deserves every bit of recognition he has received for this role. Last but not least the final scene in this movie is mesmerizing. The final confrontation between these two characters is brilliantly written and brilliantly acted. This is one of my top 5 endings for a movie ever, from the much hyped bowling pin, to the less talked about line. "I'm done". Expand
  86. Oct 19, 2012
    9
    after watching this movie, i became a fan of daniel day lewis... very dark and riveting movie. This should have been d oscar winning movie for me in that year..
  87. Nov 8, 2012
    8
    Only thing bad about this movie is that it's very slow paced and takes quite some time to really get into. By the end of it however, You will love it. Daniel Day-Lewis gives what is easily his best performance (and that's saying something) in this movie.
  88. Nov 11, 2012
    3
    The acting is superb and Daniel-Day Lewis is captivating as always. But I had to drag myself through this one. It has it's moments, but overall There Will Be Blood is a like a never ending desert highway riddled with pot holes and tumbleweeds. Long winded, dry and not an inkling of refuge in sight. If only they would have whittled it down to a neat and simple package, this could have been great. But as it stands, snooze fest. Expand
  89. Nov 12, 2012
    10
    There Will Be Blood is one of the greatest movies on my list because thanks to Paul Thomas Anderson, the movie is violent, brutal, and I think if Lincoln could get Oscar buzz, then call in Daniel-Day-Lewis. He's a gifted acclaimed actor and I think he delivers a calm, attitudinal, no-nonsense character in real life. Great film, should be in the AFI lists for the best movies of all time.
  90. Nov 15, 2012
    10
    This is a big, bold film from huge talent Paul Thomas Anderson, but it
  91. Nov 28, 2012
    10
    Daniel Day-Lewis's unbelievable performance nurtures this very intelligently written film into a deeply disquieting, perpetual steamroller of vengeance and malice.
  92. Dec 14, 2012
    9
    This deep, brooding portrayal of a man motivated only by greed is a haunting movie that will both terrify and amaze you. I needn't say, Daniel Day-Lewis delivers one of the best performances of all time as Daniel Plainview.
  93. Dec 22, 2012
    5
    I like to see movies artistically done, so this film didn't bother me exactly. It was just long, unfocused, and forgettable. The main character was not a real stretch in acting chops for Day-Lewis, and trivial parts were carried out for absurd lengths of time. Visually and in thematic details, it DID ring of some real truths and passions, which alone would make it standout against most Hollywood fare, but unless you are dedicated to odd stuff, you will definitely find it a mediocre entertainment. Expand
  94. Jan 14, 2013
    9
    This movie was a classic depiction of the great storytelling of Paul Tom Anderson with incredible acting by Day-Lewis. It was an independent joy ride through the life of an oil man. A visual and written masterpiece.
  95. Feb 11, 2013
    9
    Where to start, on the first viewing There Will Be Blood has comfortably become one of my favourite films of all time. From the dialogue-free 15 minute opening of Plainview mining alone, to the intense and violent conclusion, There Will Be Blood is unrelenting. You cannot take your eyes off Daniel Day-Lewis. He is quite simply fantastic as the fiery, vengeful and driven oilman and deserved his Plainview becomes so dislikeable he is likeable, and I found myself routing for him, after all he is the film. The scenes between pastor Eli and Daniel, in particular the two where each humiliates the other, are worth the price of admission alone.

    Maybe I'm biased, maybe Daniel Day-Lewis is one of my favourite actors, maybe because I work in the oil industry the film's subject appeals to me more, maybe great shots of drilling derricks and flaming oil gushers set against the American West just do it for me. Or maybe not, maybe Paul Thomas Anderson has just created a truly great film, full of memorable images and lines. Although central to the film, the themes of religion and capitalism are allowed to exist without heavy handed interference from Anderson. Ultimately, neither come out of the other side smelling of roses.

    The reason this film only scores 9/10 is due to the score. Radiohead's Jonny Greenwood is responsible for the score which Tarantino complimented as "one of the great modern original soundtracks of the last decade" but it just didn't agree with me.
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  96. Feb 14, 2013
    10
    Masterpiece.
  97. Feb 25, 2013
    7
    This is a roller-coaster and by that I mean that its quality is very uneven throughout the whole movie. It has some amazing moments but it has some really boring moments as well. The only constants in this movie are Daniel Day-Lewis in the leading role and Paul Thomas Anderson's directing.
  98. Mar 5, 2013
    8
    There Will Be Blood is fantastically photographed, written and acted. The central performance of Daniel Day Lewis is of legendary proportions. Better yet, the film is unbelievably funny, it's comedy blacker than the gushing oil that Plainview covets so badly. There Will be Blood is a truly unforgettable piece of cinema.
  99. Mar 14, 2013
    10
    An irrefutable masterpiece and anyone who denies it should have their milkshake drunk ASAP. It's original, intense and pretty much perfect in every way. You can feel Anderson's engagement with his subject matter and his passion for the work. You don't feel that sense of disengagement like you do with most empty Hollywood films. This is cinema at it's best, a disturbing portrayal of human nature and the effect of power. I'm just grateful that we still have at least one brilliant Director left in the world. Expand
  100. May 24, 2013
    5
    this movie is too awkward with an obnoxious writing i mean i know Daniel day-lewess made an awesome performance there is no Doubt about that but the writing keep you away from the story i mean why when his son became deaf he was happy ?
    why his son burned down the house ?
    why he killed his brother ?
    why he waited all these years until he told his son that he was adopted ?
    why in hell h
    e killed the monk ?
    omg i felt stupid after watching this movie.
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Metascore

Universal acclaim - based on 39 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 36 out of 39
  2. Negative: 0 out of 39
  1. Reviewed by: David Ansen
    100
    There Will Be Blood is ferocious, and it will be championed and attacked with an equal ferocity. When the dust settles, we may look back on it as some kind of obsessed classic.
  2. Reviewed by: Glenn Kenny
    100
    There Will Be Blood is, in fact, not a historical saga; rather, it's an absurdist, blackly comic horror film with a very idiosyncratic satanic figure at its core.
  3. Reviewed by: John DeFore
    100
    Daniel Day-Lewis stuns in Paul Thomas Anderson's saga of a soul-dead oil man.