The screenplay for the 2007 film There Will Be Blood, adapted by Paul Thomas Anderson from Upton Sinclair’s novel Oil!, is a work of considerable dramatic power. It charts the rise and fall of Daniel Plainview, a ruthless oil prospector driven to extremes by ambition and greed in early twentieth-century America. The narrative vividly portrays the transformation of Plainview from a determined, independent worker into a wealthy, isolated, and ultimately self-destructive tycoon.
This cinematic narrative is celebrated for its complex characters, stark visuals, and unflinching exploration of themes such as family, religion, and the corrupting influence of wealth. The dialogue, rich with both period detail and timeless emotional resonance, contributes significantly to the film’s enduring impact. Its meticulous construction provides actors with opportunities to deliver powerful performances, and its thematic depth offers fertile ground for critical analysis. The screenplay serves as a powerful lens through which to examine the social and economic landscape of the burgeoning American oil industry at the turn of the 20th century, and the psychological toll of unchecked ambition.
Further examination of the text reveals nuanced layers of meaning and intricate narrative choices. Exploring the adaptation process from novel to screenplay, analyzing key scenes and their cinematic realization, and considering the work’s critical reception can provide a deeper understanding of its artistry and cultural significance.
1. Adaptation from novel
The screenplay for There Will Be Blood represents a significant departure from Upton Sinclair’s source novel, Oil!. While Sinclair’s work offers a broader social critique, encompassing various characters and storylines reflecting the complexities of the early American oil industry, Anderson’s adaptation streamlines the narrative to focus intently on the character of Daniel Plainview. This shift in focus transforms the story from a multi-faceted social commentary into a character study of ambition, greed, and the corrosive effects of wealth. Sinclair’s novel provides a rich backdrop, but the screenplay isolates and amplifies specific elements to craft a distinct cinematic experience. For example, the novel features a complex relationship between Plainview’s adopted son, H.W., and Eli Sunday, the evangelical preacher; the film simplifies this dynamic to heighten the tension between Plainview and Eli, representing a clash between industry and religion. This exemplifies the adaptation’s strategic choices in reshaping the source material.
This focused adaptation allows for a deeper exploration of Plainview’s psychological descent. By condensing and rearranging events from the novel, the screenplay creates a tighter narrative arc, emphasizing the gradual erosion of Plainview’s humanity. The elimination of certain subplots, such as the detailed depiction of labor movements and socialist ideologies present in the novel, directs the narrative momentum towards Plainview’s internal struggles. This results in a more intensely personal and ultimately tragic portrayal of his character. The carefully selected incidents from the novel that are retained and amplified in the screenplay, like the oil derrick fire that deafens H.W., serve as crucial turning points in Plainview’s moral decline.
Ultimately, the screenplay’s success lies in its ability to distill the essence of Sinclair’s social critique into a compelling character study. The adaptation process involved significant alterations to the source material, but these changes serve to heighten the dramatic impact and create a unique cinematic narrative. By focusing on the psychological and moral decay of Daniel Plainview, the screenplay offers a powerful and enduring exploration of ambition’s dark side within the specific context of the American oil boom. The adaptation serves as a testament to the potential for transforming literary works into distinct cinematic experiences, retaining core thematic elements while forging a new artistic vision.
2. Daniel Plainview’s Descent
Daniel Plainview’s descent into moral bankruptcy forms the narrative and thematic core of the There Will Be Blood screenplay. His transformation from ambitious, self-reliant prospector to isolated, paranoid tycoon demonstrates the destructive power of unchecked greed. Understanding this descent provides crucial insight into the screenplay’s exploration of capitalism, ambition, and the American Dream’s dark underbelly.
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Isolation and Paranoia
As Plainview accumulates wealth and power, he becomes increasingly isolated and distrustful. Early scenes depict him as a hardworking, albeit ruthless, businessman. However, his success breeds paranoia, leading him to push away those closest to him, including his adopted son, H.W. This isolation feeds his destructive tendencies and ultimately contributes to his self-destruction. The deliberate burning of the Sunday ranch exemplifies this paranoia and his willingness to inflict harm on those he perceives as threats.
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Erosion of Morality
Plainview’s relentless pursuit of profit gradually erodes his moral compass. Initially presented as a driven individual willing to endure hardship, his ambition warps into an all-consuming greed. He lies, cheats, and manipulates others without remorse, demonstrating a complete disregard for human connection and ethical behavior. His exploitation of the Bandy family’s land, masking his intentions with false promises, illustrates this moral decay.
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Rejection of Family and Relationships
The screenplay highlights Plainview’s inability to form genuine connections. His relationship with H.W. begins with a semblance of paternal affection, but ultimately devolves into a transactional dynamic fueled by Plainview’s self-interest. He views H.W. as a tool to project an image of family values, rather than a genuine object of love. Sending H.W. away to a deaf school demonstrates the extent of his emotional detachment.
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Spiritual and Emotional Void
Plainview’s relentless pursuit of material wealth leaves him spiritually and emotionally bankrupt. While initially dismissive of religion, his interactions with Eli Sunday reveal a deeper spiritual void. This void, coupled with his growing isolation, contributes to his volatile behavior and ultimately culminates in the film’s violent climax. His final confrontation with Eli in the bowling alley underscores the emptiness that consumes him.
These interconnected facets of Plainview’s descent illuminate the screenplay’s central themes. His story serves as a cautionary tale, exposing the potential for corruption inherent in the pursuit of the American Dream. By tracing Plainview’s downfall, the There Will Be Blood screenplay offers a profound meditation on the human cost of unchecked ambition and the destructive consequences of prioritizing material wealth over genuine human connection.
3. Themes of Greed and Ambition
The screenplay of There Will Be Blood explores the corrosive nature of greed and ambition, portraying their destructive impact on individuals and their surroundings. Daniel Plainview’s relentless pursuit of wealth and power serves as a central case study, illustrating how these desires can warp one’s morality and erode human connection. The film offers a nuanced examination of these themes, going beyond simple moralizing to depict their complex interplay and far-reaching consequences within the context of the early American oil boom.
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The Allure of Wealth
The screenplay depicts the seductive power of wealth, showing how its promise can blind individuals to ethical considerations. Plainview’s initial drive appears rooted in a desire for financial security and independence. However, as his wealth grows, so does his avarice, transforming him into a ruthless exploiter. His acquisition of the Sunday ranch, achieved through manipulation and deceit, exemplifies this shift. The film subtly critiques the allure of material gain, suggesting its potential to corrupt even those with initially noble intentions.
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The Price of Ambition
Plainview’s ambition fuels his relentless pursuit of success, but it also exacts a heavy toll. His drive isolates him from others, destroying his potential for genuine human connection. His strained relationship with H.W., marked by emotional detachment and manipulation, demonstrates the personal sacrifices he makes in his climb to the top. The screenplay suggests that ambition, when unchecked by ethical boundaries, can lead to profound loneliness and alienation.
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Exploitation and Manipulation
The screenplay exposes the exploitative nature of unchecked greed. Plainview manipulates and deceives those around him, viewing them as obstacles to overcome rather than individuals deserving of respect. His dealings with the Bandy family, where he feigns religious piety to gain access to their oil-rich land, showcase his willingness to exploit others for personal gain. This underscores the film’s critique of the ethical compromises often made in the pursuit of wealth.
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The Illusion of the American Dream
The film offers a cynical perspective on the American Dream, suggesting that its promise of prosperity can be a dangerous illusion. Plainview’s story illustrates the potential for the American Dream to become a nightmare, as his relentless pursuit of wealth ultimately leads to his moral and spiritual downfall. His final, isolated existence in his opulent mansion, devoid of genuine human connection, serves as a stark commentary on the emptiness that can accompany material success.
By exploring these facets of greed and ambition, There Will Be Blood offers a complex and unsettling portrayal of the human condition. The screenplay argues that the pursuit of wealth and power, when divorced from ethical considerations and genuine human connection, can lead to profound personal and societal damage. The film’s enduring power lies in its unflinching examination of these themes, prompting reflection on the true cost of ambition and the corrupting influence of unchecked greed.
4. Religious Hypocrisy
The screenplay of There Will Be Blood uses religious hypocrisy as a powerful thematic counterpoint to Daniel Plainview’s consuming ambition. Eli Sunday, the charismatic young preacher, embodies this hypocrisy, providing a stark contrast to Plainview’s overt ruthlessness. While Plainview operates through deceit and manipulation in the realm of business, Eli employs similar tactics under the guise of religious fervor. This parallel serves to critique not only individual hypocrisy but also the broader social landscape of the early 20th century, where the burgeoning oil industry and religious revivalism often intersected with exploitative consequences.
The screenplay establishes a complex dynamic between Plainview and Eli. Their initial interactions reveal a mutual distrust, evolving into open antagonism as they compete for influence and control within the Little Boston community. Eli’s attempts to extract financial concessions from Plainview in exchange for spiritual blessings highlight the transactional nature of their relationship. This mirrors the broader societal trend of exploiting religious belief for personal gain. Plainview’s forced baptism, a humiliating act of public submission, underscores the power dynamics at play and the manipulative use of religious ritual. This scene encapsulates the film’s critique of religious hypocrisy as a tool for control and exploitation. Historical parallels can be drawn to the often-fraught relationship between industrialists and religious figures during this period, where economic interests and spiritual influence were often intertwined.
The film’s exploration of religious hypocrisy extends beyond Eli Sunday. The broader community’s embrace of his theatrical displays of faith, despite his evident self-interest, suggests a collective susceptibility to manipulation. This commentary extends beyond individual hypocrisy to examine the societal conditions that allow such figures to thrive. The screenplay ultimately suggests that both Plainview’s greed and Eli’s religious hypocrisy stem from a similar desire for power and control, albeit expressed through different means. Understanding this connection provides crucial insight into the film’s broader critique of the corrupting influences of both unchecked ambition and manipulative religious practices. The film’s enduring relevance lies in its exploration of these themes, which resonate with contemporary concerns about the intersection of power, faith, and exploitation.
5. Dialogue and Imagery
The screenplay of There Will Be Blood masterfully utilizes dialogue and imagery to create a stark and unsettling portrayal of ambition, greed, and the American West at the turn of the 20th century. These elements work in concert to establish the film’s distinct atmosphere and convey the complex psychological landscape of its central character, Daniel Plainview. Analyzing the interplay of dialogue and imagery provides crucial insight into the screenplay’s artistic power and thematic depth.
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Sparse and Deliberate Dialogue
The screenplay’s dialogue is often sparse and deliberately paced, reflecting the harsh and isolated environment in which the story unfolds. Plainview’s pronouncements, frequently laced with a quiet menace, reveal his calculating nature and growing detachment from humanity. The measured silences between exchanges amplify the tension and underscore the characters’ isolation. For instance, the chilling exchange between Plainview and Eli Sunday during the forced baptism scene relies as much on what is left unsaid as on the spoken words, highlighting the power dynamics and underlying animosity between them.
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Visual Metaphors of Isolation and Greed
The film’s striking visual imagery reinforces the themes of isolation and greed. Vast, desolate landscapes mirror Plainview’s growing internal emptiness. The derricks and oil fields, symbols of his ambition, become visual representations of his all-consuming desire for wealth and power. The recurring image of fire, from the oil derrick fire that deafens H.W. to the burning of the Sunday ranch, symbolizes the destructive consequences of Plainview’s actions. These visual metaphors deepen the film’s thematic resonance.
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Sound Design and Silence
The screenplay effectively utilizes sound, or the absence thereof, to create a sense of unease and foreboding. The rhythmic pounding of oil derricks, the chilling whoosh of escaping gas, and the unsettling silence of the vast landscapes all contribute to the film’s oppressive atmosphere. These auditory elements heighten the sense of isolation and underscore the destructive forces at play. The contrast between the cacophony of the oil fields and the quiet of Plainview’s opulent but empty mansion emphasizes his spiritual and emotional void.
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Contrasting Environments
The screenplay juxtaposes contrasting environments to highlight the film’s thematic concerns. The initial scenes depicting the arduous process of oil extraction give way to the opulent interiors of Plainview’s mansion, showcasing the material fruits of his labor but also underscoring the spiritual and emotional poverty that accompanies his wealth. This contrast between the harsh realities of the oil fields and the artificial comfort of Plainview’s home emphasizes the corrupting influence of greed.
The interplay of these elementssparse dialogue, evocative imagery, and carefully crafted sound designcreates a powerful and unsettling cinematic experience. The screenplay’s masterful use of these techniques elevates There Will Be Blood beyond a simple narrative, transforming it into a complex and enduring exploration of the human condition in the face of ambition, greed, and the transformative power of the American West.
6. Cinematic Realization
The cinematic realization of the There Will Be Blood screenplay elevates the narrative from page to screen, transforming the written word into a visceral cinematic experience. Director Paul Thomas Anderson’s interpretation of the script, combined with the contributions of the cast and crew, imbues the story with a distinct visual and auditory language that amplifies its thematic power. Examining this translation from script to film reveals the crucial role of cinematic techniques in shaping the narrative’s impact.
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Performance and Character Embodiment
Daniel Day-Lewis’s portrayal of Daniel Plainview is a masterclass in character embodiment. His nuanced performance captures the character’s complex and often contradictory nature, conveying both his ruthless ambition and his underlying vulnerability. The screenplay provides the foundation, but Day-Lewis’s physicality, vocal delivery, and subtle expressions bring Plainview to life, creating a truly unforgettable cinematic character. This performance transcends the written word, adding layers of depth and complexity to the character’s psychological descent.
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Visual Storytelling and Cinematography
Robert Elswit’s cinematography captures the stark beauty and desolate expanse of the American West, visually reinforcing the themes of isolation and greed. The use of wide shots emphasizes the vastness of the landscape, dwarfing the human figures and highlighting their vulnerability. Close-ups on Plainview’s face capture his shifting emotions, from steely determination to simmering rage. The deliberate framing and composition of shots translate the screenplay’s descriptions into a powerful visual language, enriching the narrative’s impact. The visual storytelling complements the dialogue, creating a multi-layered cinematic experience.
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Sound Design and Musical Score
Jonny Greenwood’s unsettling score enhances the film’s atmosphere of unease and foreboding. The dissonant strings and haunting melodies create a sense of tension that permeates even the quietest scenes. The sound design, incorporating the rhythmic clang of oil derricks and the ominous rumble of earthquakes, adds to the film’s visceral impact. These elements, working in conjunction with the visuals and performances, create a complete sensory experience that immerses the viewer in the world of the film. The sonic landscape reinforces the screenplay’s thematic concerns, deepening the film’s emotional resonance.
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Editing and Pacing
The film’s deliberate pacing, achieved through skillful editing, allows the narrative to unfold gradually, building tension and suspense. Long takes and slow, deliberate camera movements draw the viewer into the story, creating a sense of immersion. The editing choices amplify the impact of key scenes, such as the climactic confrontation between Plainview and Eli, maximizing their emotional impact. The editing, working in concert with the other cinematic elements, creates a cohesive and powerful cinematic experience.
These elements of cinematic realization, working in harmony, transform the There Will Be Blood screenplay into a compelling and unforgettable film. The director’s vision, combined with the contributions of the cast and crew, elevates the written word to a visceral cinematic experience, enriching the narrative’s thematic depth and emotional resonance. The film stands as a testament to the power of cinematic language to illuminate the complexities of human ambition, greed, and the American Dream’s dark side.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the screenplay of There Will Be Blood. These questions delve into various aspects of the script, from its adaptation process to its thematic complexities.
Question 1: How does the screenplay differ from Upton Sinclair’s novel Oil!?
The screenplay significantly condenses and restructures Sinclair’s novel, focusing primarily on Daniel Plainview’s character arc. Several subplots and characters from the novel are omitted, allowing for a more concentrated exploration of Plainview’s descent into greed and isolation. The screenplay also alters the ending significantly, heightening the tragic impact of Plainview’s fate. While the novel offers a broader social critique, the screenplay delves deeper into the psychological complexities of its central character.
Question 2: What is the significance of the film’s title?
The title, “There Will Be Blood,” foreshadows the violence and destruction that accompany the pursuit of oil and wealth. It can be interpreted both literally, referencing the physical dangers of the oil industry, and metaphorically, representing the metaphorical “bloodshed” caused by greed and ambition. It also alludes to a biblical passage, hinting at the film’s exploration of religious themes.
Question 3: What is the role of Eli Sunday in the narrative?
Eli Sunday serves as a foil to Daniel Plainview, embodying religious hypocrisy and offering a contrasting form of manipulation. His interactions with Plainview highlight the corrupting influences of both unchecked ambition and religious fervor. Their conflict represents a clash between two powerful forces vying for control within the community.
Question 4: How does the screenplay use symbolism?
The screenplay employs various symbolic elements to enrich its thematic resonance. The recurring motif of fire represents the destructive power of greed, while the vast, desolate landscapes mirror Plainview’s growing internal emptiness. The oil itself symbolizes both opportunity and corruption, reflecting the ambiguous nature of the American Dream.
Question 5: What are some key themes explored in the screenplay?
The screenplay explores a complex interplay of themes, including ambition, greed, the corrupting influence of wealth, religious hypocrisy, family dynamics, and the dark underbelly of the American Dream. It also examines the psychological toll of isolation and the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition.
Question 6: Where can one access the screenplay for further study?
The screenplay for There Will Be Blood is available online and in print from various sources. Published versions often include annotations and analysis that provide further insights into the script’s structure, themes, and cinematic realization. Studying the screenplay provides a deeper appreciation for the film’s artistry and thematic depth.
Understanding these key aspects of the screenplay offers a richer appreciation for the film’s complexity and enduring power. It provides a framework for further exploration and critical analysis of this cinematic masterpiece.
Further exploration of the film’s critical reception and its place within the broader context of American cinema can provide additional layers of understanding.
Tips for Studying the There Will Be Blood Screenplay
Engaging with the screenplay of There Will Be Blood offers valuable insights into its narrative structure, thematic complexities, and cinematic realization. The following tips provide guidance for a deeper and more rewarding study of this acclaimed work.
Tip 1: Read the screenplay alongside the novel Oil!. Comparing the screenplay with Upton Sinclair’s source material illuminates the adaptation process. Observing how Paul Thomas Anderson reshaped and streamlined the narrative highlights the creative choices involved in translating a sprawling novel into a focused cinematic experience.
Tip 2: Focus on Daniel Plainview’s dialogue. Analyze Plainview’s carefully crafted lines, paying attention to his word choices and the ways in which his language evolves throughout the story. This reveals crucial insights into his character’s psychological transformation and the film’s exploration of ambition and greed.
Tip 3: Examine the use of visual descriptions. The screenplay’s visual descriptions offer clues to the film’s visual style and thematic concerns. Pay attention to the descriptions of the landscapes, the oil fields, and Plainview’s changing environments. These descriptions provide a framework for understanding the film’s cinematic realization.
Tip 4: Consider the role of silence. The screenplay utilizes silence strategically to create tension and underscore the characters’ isolation. Note how silences are incorporated into scenes, and how they contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere of unease.
Tip 5: Analyze the dynamic between Daniel Plainview and Eli Sunday. Their scenes together are crucial to understanding the film’s exploration of religious hypocrisy and the conflict between ambition and faith. Pay attention to their dialogue, power dynamics, and the symbolic significance of their interactions.
Tip 6: Research the historical context. Understanding the historical backdrop of the early American oil boom enriches appreciation for the film’s themes and setting. Research the social, economic, and religious landscape of the period to gain a deeper understanding of the film’s context.
Tip 7: Watch the film multiple times. Repeated viewings of the film enhance understanding of the screenplay’s nuances. Pay attention to how the director translates the written word into cinematic language, focusing on performance, cinematography, sound design, and editing.
By following these tips, one can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the There Will Be Blood screenplay and its cinematic realization. Careful study of the script reveals its intricate structure, thematic depth, and enduring power.
These insights provide a foundation for a deeper appreciation of the film’s artistic achievements and its exploration of the human condition.
Conclusion
Exploration of the screenplay for There Will Be Blood reveals a meticulously crafted narrative exploring the complexities of ambition, greed, and the human condition. Adaptation from Upton Sinclair’s novel required careful selection and streamlining, resulting in a focused character study of Daniel Plainview’s descent into moral bankruptcy. Analysis of the dialogue, imagery, and thematic interplay demonstrates the screenplay’s power. The cinematic realization successfully translates the written word into a visceral experience, employing powerful performances, evocative cinematography, and a haunting score to amplify the narrative’s impact. The screenplay’s exploration of religious hypocrisy, through the character of Eli Sunday, adds another layer to its critique of exploitative power dynamics.
The enduring power of the There Will Be Blood screenplay lies in its unflinching examination of the human cost of unchecked ambition. This work invites continued analysis and discussion, prompting reflection on the corrupting influence of wealth and the complexities of the American Dream. Further study promises deeper understanding of its artistic merit and cultural significance within the landscape of American cinema.
