Is Daniel Day-Lewis a Great Actor or Just Someone Mastering Acting?

In my opinion, Daniel Day-Lewis is one of the greatest actors of our time. His work demonstrates true craftsmanship and versatility, never playing the same role twice, meaning his approach to each new role is from a totally fresh and original direction. The depth of his commitment and his rigorous work ethic enable him to seamlessly disappear into his characters. From Christy Brown in My Left Foot to Bill the Butcher in Gangs of New York to Daniel Plainview in There Will Be Blood, the breadth and depth of his performances paint a vivid picture of a master actor at work.

Challenging Roles and Personal Growth

Day-Lewis is known for taking on difficult roles that push him out of his comfort zone. This dedication to challenging himself is perhaps the most striking aspect of his career. His earliest display of this capability was seen in The Crucible, where he portrayed John Proctor and demonstrated a willingness to engage with unlikely characters. American actors, he is part of, often approach roles by channeling emotions from the inside out, allowing the emotional depth to define the character externally. British actors, on the other hand, work from the external in, selecting voices, facial, and physical characteristics to define the internal aspects of the character. Day-Lewis blurs the line between these approaches, delivering a unique performance in each of his roles.

Creating Singular Characters

To understand his craft, one must look at how he approaches his roles. Day-Lewis creates a gallery of singular characters through his performances, with each character presenting their own unique challenges. In My Left Foot, for example, his restricted physical mobility is a key aspect of the character, while in The Last of the Mohicans, his physical prowess plays a central role. In There Will Be Blood and Lincoln, the complexity of his performances highlights his dedication to the craft. He delves deep into the physical and emotional nuances of each role, allowing his audiences to experience these intricate details.

A Fundamental Difference: Method of Acting

A fundamental difference between professional actors and the general public's view of acting is that acting is not just about becoming a character but portraying that character truthfully. For Daniel Day-Lewis, this involves significant work on his body and voice to portray a different sort of person than he is, while still approaching the character's circumstances with authenticity. This dedication to both the internal and external aspects of the role is what sets him apart.

The Work of an Actor and the Art of Giving a Performance

Part of the significance of Daniel Day-Lewis's performances lies in the meticulous preparation and the rigorous work ethic that supports it. His performances are a testament to his belief that acting is more than just portraying a character; it is about bringing them to life truthfully and authentically. This method of acting involves a level of immersion that is unparalleled, and it is this commitment that makes his performances truly remarkable.

Ultimately, the question of whether Daniel Day-Lewis is a great actor or someone who is great at acting like a great actor is subjective. Some may see him as the epitome of an actor, while others may think of him as a man who masterfully performs his roles. However, the one thing that cannot be denied is his contribution to the art of acting and his impact on the film industry.

The Art of Acting and Public Opinion

Regardless of one's opinion, the art of acting thrives on diverse perspectives. Acting is not an absolute; it is a subjective art form, and everyone has the right to their own opinion. Whether you admire his performances, find them convincing, or are simply curious about his craft, it’s important to appreciate the impact he has had on the entertainment industry as a whole. Daniel Day-Lewis is not just an actor but a master of his art, and his dedication to his craft deserves recognition and respect.