Why did Daniel Plainview Commit Two Unnecessary Murders in There Will Be Blood?

In the critically acclaimed film There Will Be Blood, Daniel Plainview, played magnificently by Daniel Day-Lewis, commits two brutal murders that may initially appear unnecessary. However, these acts are deeply rooted in the character's complex motivations and the overarching themes of the movie. This article delves into the symbolism behind these murders and how they reflect Plainview's character and the film's overarching themes.

The Symbolism of Power and Control: The First Murder

The film opens with the image of Plainview riding into a town, threatening to burn down a church if he is not given rights over the land. This aggressive stance sets the tone for his character and the theme of power and control. The first murder in the film occurs when Plainview kills an intruder, a man who has come to confront him about a land dispute. This act serves to eliminate a potential threat to his control over his oil empire. Plainview, obsessed with dominance, sees this murder as a necessary step to secure his position as an unchallenged figure in the ruthless world of oil drilling.

Personal Vendetta and Paranoia: The Second Murder

The second and arguably more significant murder is the killing of Eli Sunday. Eli represents both a personal and ideological threat to Plainview. Their relationship is marked by a deep-seated animosity, with Plainview's decision to kill Eli driven by a mixture of revenge, betrayal, and the desire to eradicate any challenge to his authority. Eli's attempts to manipulate and exploit Plainview's vulnerabilities push him to a breaking point where he feels that eliminating Eli is the only way to secure his legacy and protect his interests.

Exploring Themes of Greed, Ambition, and Capitalism

These murders highlight Plainview's moral corruption and the lengths he is willing to go to achieve his goals. They illustrate the film's exploration of themes such as greed, ambition, and the destructive nature of capitalism, where personal relationships are often sacrificed for the sake of power and wealth. For Plainview, the loss of his real brother Henry to an imposter marked a critical turning point in his character's journey, emphasizing the betrayal he associates with these murders.

The Symbolic Context

One can argue that Plainview's decision to kill the intruder and Eli are symbolic of the caveat that comes with the rise of capitalism. The manipulation, greed, and general lack of a moral compass are personified in the character's actions. Each murder represents a step in Plainview's descent into a world where survival is the only rule, and the pathway to success is paved with betrayal and violence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the two unnecessary murders in There Will Be Blood serve not just as central plot points but as powerful symbols of the destructive forces at play in the world of the film. They reflect Plainview's character journey, his pursuit of power, and the dark nature of ambition. These acts underscore the themes of the film, making There Will Be Blood a brilliant and haunting exploration of human nature in the face of desire and greed.