Exploring the Dark Heart of 'There Will Be Blood': A Closer Look at Daniel Plainview's Motivations and Moments of Humanity

Introduction

James Dean's iconic role in 'Rebel Without a Cause' and Daniel Day-Lewis's portrayal of Daniel Plainview in the 2007 film lsquo;There Will Be Blood,rsquo; have cemented this oil-magnifying wizard's place in the annals of modern cinema. This article delves into the multifaceted psyche of Daniel Plainview, examining his motivations and exploring moments of humanity amidst the capricious characters.

Motivations Underlying Daniel Plainview's Actions

At the crux of Daniel Plainview's journey lies a complex mix of desires and motivations that drive his every action. Perhaps the most prominent among these is his need for control and success, often rooted in a deep-seated sense of inferiority. In his bid to accumulate wealth and establish a legacy, Daniel employs a range of strategies, from exploitation to manipulation, to navigate the treacherous landscape of late 19th-century and early 20th-century America.

One of the pivotal moments that encapsulate this is when Daniel tells H.W. (HW is a character in the movie) that he took him lsquo;for no other reason than I needed a sweet face to buy ; This candid admission reveals a layer of compulsion behind Daniel's actions, hinting at a more complex backstory of his own formative years. It suggests that Daniel may have been an orphan, just like H.W., and that his harsh demeanor is a mask for deeper insecurities and a desire to exert power over those around him.

Moments of Humanity in Daniel Plainview's Journey

Despite the overwhelming portrayal of Daniel as a cold, calculating individual, the film lsquo;There Will Be Bloodrsquo; provides several instances that reveal fleeting glimpses of his humanity. These moments are crucial in understanding the character's complex personality and motivations.

Compassion for Eli Sunday's Sister:

During one of his visits to Eli's sister, who is suffering from a debilitating illness, Daniel's demeanor softens. His tender care and concern for her reflect a deeper sense of empathy and compassion. This act of kindness is a rare deviation from his usual solitary, amoral existence, adding nuance to his character.

Relationship with H.W.:

His relationship with H.W. is another pivotal element in this exploration. While their initial association is founded on mutual exploitation, there is a moment of genuine interaction when H.W. finds himself ill. Daniel's decision to stay with him, ensuring he is cared for, and his eventual confession about taking H.W. as a project to earn land, indicate a sliver of humane concern beneath his relentless drive.

Genuine Anger at Eli for Not Healing His Son:

Another significant instance of Daniel's emotional depth is his genuine anger towards Eli for not being able to heal his son. This moment reflects Daniel's profound vulnerability and his deep love for his son, despite the superficial facade of harshness and detachment.

Conclusion

James Dean's character in 'Rebel Without a Cause' and Daniel Day-Lewis in lsquo;There Will Be Bloodrsquo; both offer profound insights into the human condition. While Daniel Plainview's motivations and actions are largely driven by a ruthless pursuit of success, there are moments of complex human emotion that hint at a more nuanced and multifaceted character. These moments challenge our perceptions of the archetype of the oil baron, revealing the layers of humanity beneath the surface.

This deep dive into the character of Daniel Plainview provides a deeper understanding of the themes and motivations in 'There Will Be Blood.'