First Look at ‘Anemone’: Daniel Day-Lewis Makes His Acting Comeback After Eight Years

Daniel Day-Lewis is officially coming back to the big screen after an eight-year break, and the first look at his new movie, Anemone, has been revealed. The drama is directed by his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, and explores deep and emotional relationships between brothers, fathers, and sons. The film will premiere at the 63rd New York Film Festival before hitting theaters later this year.

According to Focus Features, Anemone was written by Ronan Day-Lewis and co-written with his father. This marks Daniel’s first role since his retirement after the 2017 film Phantom Thread. Joining him in the cast are Sean Bean, Samantha Morton, Samuel Bottomley, and Safia Oakley-Green. The movie will be released in select theaters in the United States on October 3, 2025, and then expand nationwide on October 10.

News of the project first broke in September 2024, when it was announced that Daniel Day-Lewis would return to acting. Ronan, already attached as the director, worked closely with his father to shape the story. The crew included Jane Petrie as costume designer and Chris Oddy as production designer. Filming started on October 1, 2024, in Manchester.

The shoot hit a snag later that month while working in Handbridge, Chester. Several 1980s prop cars used in the movie were given parking tickets after being left on double-yellow lines. A spokesperson for Cheshire West and Chester Council said that while the production had permission for technical support vehicles to park in restricted areas, the clearance did not include the prop cars. The council also rejected a request for a full road closure, saying it would be “too disruptive” for residents.

The film’s story and performances are being kept mostly under wraps for now, but the family connection between Daniel and Ronan adds another layer of interest. Billed as a heartfelt drama, Anemone will be Daniel’s first collaboration with his son and could be one of the most talked-about films of the year.

While the actor has kept a low profile since leaving Hollywood, this project seems to have drawn him back. The New York Film Festival will host the world premiere, giving audiences the first chance to see his return to the screen.

With a strong cast, an experienced production team, and a father-son creative partnership at its heart, Anemone is already attracting major buzz.

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