Daniel Day-Lewis, known for his intense method acting, recently revealed the reasons behind his decision to retire from the world of acting.

In an interview with The BBC, he explained that his unique approach involves fully immersing himself in his roles, often isolating himself and undergoing significant physical and emotional transformations to deliver authentic performances.

This process of deep immersion and subsequent detachment, according to Day-Lewis, is an essential part of his artistic journey.

Day-Lewis emphasized the importance of creating a specific environment tailored to each role, highlighting the need for silence, light, or noise to set the right tone for his performances.

Despite acknowledging that his methods may seem unconventional to others, he firmly believes in the necessity of finding his own rhythm to truly connect with his characters and deliver compelling portrayals on screen.

While his dedication to his craft has yielded remarkable results, Day-Lewis has also faced challenges due to the emotional toll of inhabiting complex characters.

He shared his feelings of melancholy and unease upon completing a project, describing the experience as surreal and emotionally draining.

The lingering attachment to his characters often lingers for years, reflecting the profound impact his roles have on him.

Following the completion of certain films, Day-Lewis struggled to detach himself from his characters, admitting to maintaining their traits and behaviors long after filming had ended.

This difficulty in separating his on-screen personas from his personal identity contributed to a sense of alienation and emotional turmoil post-production, underscoring the depth of his commitment to his craft.

Despite his acclaimed acting career, Day-Lewis found solace in pursuing an alternative passion outside of the spotlight.

Venturing into cobbling, he sought a tangible and gratifying outlet that provided a stark contrast to the intangible nature of acting.

By engaging in hands-on craftsmanship, he discovered a sense of fulfillment and clarity that eluded him in the world of cinema.

Day-Lewis’ contemplation of retirement dates back to earlier stages of his career, marked by periods of uncertainty and introspection about his future in acting.

His intermittent breaks and diversions into woodworking underscore his desire for a balanced life beyond the demands of the entertainment industry, indicating a persistent yearning for creative exploration and personal growth.

The evolving landscape of the film industry posed additional challenges for Day-Lewis, as he navigated the shifting priorities and commercial pressures that overshadowed his artistic preferences.

The increasing emphasis on franchise films and blockbuster spectacles clashed with his inclination towards nuanced character studies, prompting him to reassess his relationship with Hollywood and its evolving dynamics.

Day-Lewis’ decision to retire following his performance in “Phantom Thread” stemmed from a profound sense of disillusionment and emotional exhaustion.

The film’s profound impact on him and his collaboration with director Paul Thomas Anderson catalyzed his resolve to bid farewell to acting, marking a poignant conclusion to his illustrious career.

As Day-Lewis embarks on a new chapter outside of the limelight, his departure serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and personal evolution.

While his decision may come as a surprise to fans and industry peers, it reflects a deeply introspective journey towards self-discovery and creative fulfillment beyond the confines of acting.

(Source: Looper)