Daniel Day Lewis returns to the screen in Anemone, his first role since 2017, in the most anticipated comeback of the year. The film’s distributor has released the first official images, offering a powerful glimpse at the three-time Oscar winner’s transformative performance. Anemone will have its world premiere at the New York Film Festival this fall, followed by a U.S. theatrical release in October.
Key Points Summary
- Return: Daniel Day Lewis ends an eight-year absence from acting.
- Collaboration: Co-wrote Anemone with his son, Ronan Day-Lewis.
- Premiere & Release: World premiere at NYFF; limited U.S. theatrical release on October 3, expanding October 10.
- Cast & Crew: Stars alongside Sam Bean, Samantha Morton, and Samuel Bottomley.
- Story: A gripping family drama centered on reconciliation between estranged brothers.
This return marks a rare and remarkable moment in cinema, as one of the most private and selective actors in Hollywood steps back into the spotlight. The first images capture him in an intense, grounded role that is set to remind audiences why he is regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time.
Anemone follows the story of a man living in seclusion, whose quiet life is disrupted when his suburban brother seeks him out after years of estrangement. Set in the rugged landscapes of northern England, the film explores family wounds, buried secrets, and the fragile road toward forgiveness. Daniel Day Lewis plays the reclusive brother, delivering a performance that early buzz describes as both emotionally raw and visually striking.
Behind the Scenes
The project carries a deeply personal touch, as Daniel Day Lewis co-wrote the screenplay with his son Ronan. This father-son collaboration adds a layer of authenticity to the story’s themes of reconciliation and shared history.
Production is handled by a powerhouse team, with a combination of acclaimed producers and visionary crew members who bring meticulous detail to every frame. Cinematography captures sweeping natural beauty and intimate close-ups, while the costume and production design immerse audiences fully into the world of Anemone.
Release Strategy & Awards Potential
The film’s rollout is carefully timed for awards season. It will debut in limited theaters on October 3, 2025, before expanding nationwide on October 10. That schedule positions Anemone to gain momentum through critical acclaim and word of mouth ahead of major industry honors.
Its world premiere at the prestigious New York Film Festival will place it directly in front of critics, cinephiles, and Academy members—ensuring Daniel Day Lewis’s comeback gets the attention it deserves.
A Legacy Renewed
Daniel Day Lewis is the only actor in history to win three Academy Awards for Best Actor, and his decision to step away from acting in 2017 left a void in cinema. His return isn’t simply about stepping back into the spotlight—it’s about reigniting his passion for storytelling and delivering a role that challenges him as much as it moves audiences.
In Anemone, he revisits the emotionally charged territory he’s known for, but with a sense of maturity and reflection that comes from years away from the craft. The result is expected to be a performance that blends technical mastery with heartfelt vulnerability.
Closing Thoughts
Daniel Day Lewis’s return in Anemone is shaping up to be a landmark moment for film lovers. With its emotionally resonant story, strong creative team, and awards-season positioning, the film is set to be one of the defining releases of the year. Share your thoughts on his long-awaited return and whether Anemone could earn him yet another Oscar.