In 2017, three-time Oscar winner Daniel Day-Lewis declared his retirement from acting following the release of Paul Thomas Anderson’s 'Phantom Thread.' With Academy Awards for 'My Left Foot' (1990), 'There Will Be Blood' (2008), and 'Lincoln' (2013), the British actor became the sole recipient of three Best Actor Oscars. Renowned as one of the finest actors of his era, Day-Lewis is known for his meticulous preparation for roles, often spanning years. His filmography includes 'My Beautiful Laundrette,' 'The Last of the Mohicans,' 'In the Name of the Father,' 'The Crucible,' and 'Gangs of New York.'
Seven years after his departure from the screen, the acclaimed actor was recently seen on the set of a film titled 'Anemone,' though some sources refer to it as 'Avelyne.' This marks the directorial debut of his 26-year-old son, Ronan Day-Lewis, a painter whose first international solo exhibition opens today in Hong Kong. The father-son duo co-wrote the screenplay, delving into the complex dynamics of family ties. The film also features Sean Bean, Samantha Morton, Samuel Bottomley, and Safia Oakley-Green.
Spotted in Manchester with a striking handlebar moustache and riding a motorcycle, this could signal Day-Lewis's grand return to cinema, even if in a cameo role. 'We are thrilled to collaborate with the talented Ronan Day-Lewis on his inaugural feature film, alongside his father Daniel as his creative partner,' stated Focus Features chairman Peter Kujawski. 'Their script is exceptional, and we eagerly anticipate bringing their shared vision to audiences with the support of Plan B.'
Day-Lewis has retired twice in his career. After 'The Boxer' (1997), he left acting to become a cobbler, apprenticing with renowned shoemaker Stefano Bemer in Italy. He returned to the screen five years later, persuaded by Martin Scorsese for 'Gangs of New York.' Recently, Scorsese hinted at another potential collaboration with Day-Lewis, expressing, 'We did two films together, and it was one of the greatest experiences of my life… Maybe there’s time for one more. Maybe!'
Fingers crossed. As of now, there is no release date for 'Anemone.'