Daniel Day-Lewis Discusses Class, Cinema, and Theatre’s Elitist Roots

During a recent discussion at the London Film Festival, acclaimed actor Daniel Day-Lewis addressed several critical issues surrounding class and cinema. He expressed concerns about the rising elitism in theatre and its impact on audiences.

Elitism in Theatre and Cinema

Day-Lewis, conversing with critic Mark Kermode at BFI Southbank, lamented the perception that theatre is considered a superior art form. He stated, “There’s still an elitism in this country that theatre is the superior form.” His experience at the Bristol Old Vic school shaped his beliefs, with theatre training emphasizing its prestige over other mediums like film and television.

While acknowledging the value of theatre, Day-Lewis noted that it often caters to a privileged audience. He remarked, “Theatre essentially relies on people having had the privilege of an education.” This mindset, he argued, restricts access to those who can appreciate classic work due to their educational background.

Accessible Cinema

In contrast, Day-Lewis emphasized the democratic nature of cinema. He pointed out that movies traditionally allowed everyone the opportunity to buy a ticket, although he acknowledged that this is changing. He lauded the efforts of some theatre companies that strive to provide affordable performances but maintained that cinema generally has broader accessibility.

New Film: Anemone

On the same day as the festival event, Day-Lewis attended the premiere of his latest film, Anemone. Co-written with his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, the film marks the accomplished actor’s return after a seven-year hiatus. His last project was Paul Thomas Anderson’s Phantom Thread, following which he stated he would retire from acting.

However, in a recent interview, he revealed that he “never intended to retire.” He described the filming of Anemone, which features a storyline focusing on two brothers involved in paramilitary activities in Northern Ireland during the 1980s. Day-Lewis expressed the need to explore varying perspectives of the conflict, particularly the overlooked experiences of British soldiers.

Reflections on Method Acting

Daniel Day-Lewis also addressed misconceptions about method acting. He indicated that “recent commentary” on the subject often comes from people unfamiliar with the technique. “It’s just a way of freeing yourself,” he explained, enabling actors to be spontaneous while engaging with their characters.

Career Highlights and Challenges

Reflecting on his career, Day-Lewis mentioned his portrayal of Christy Brown in My Left Foot, a role he noted is now seen as problematic due to changing attitudes towards disability representation. He acknowledged the challenges he faced as an actor, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in performances.

Day-Lewis has received critical acclaim throughout his career, winning three Academy Awards for Best Actor. He expressed mixed feelings about the reception of Anemone, acknowledging the influence critics have on its public perception.

• Film: Anemone
• Director: Ronan Day-Lewis
• Actor: Daniel Day-Lewis
• Release Date: Premiered at the London Film Festival

In sum, Day-Lewis’s remarks have sparked vital conversations about the accessibility of theatre versus cinema, the role of method acting, and the evolution of representation in storytelling. His insights continue to resonate within the cultural landscape, urging both audiences and creators to reflect on inclusivity in the arts.