Phantom Thread

There is so much to love about this movie, and it's so rewarding on repeat viewings. On the surface, a plot and setting that doesn't feel like it would appeal to me: an upper bourgeoisie dressmaker for the aristocratic elite in 1950's London who eschews personability for hard-edged devotion to his life's work, so much so that he closes himself off from and pushes away would-be romantic involvement. Under that surface, though, is a story of Reynolds Woodcock's bruised ego, sheltering himself from pain and abandonment, who encounters Alma's steadfast and resilient natural force to show love and be loved without compromise. The push and pull between the two leads and the ultimate "compromise" they land on is constructed like the delicate dresses showcased in the film: meticulously layered and handcrafted to perfection. The art direction, cinematography, set and costume design, acting,  dialogue, and, oh GOD, the music. It all adds up to what I've realized over a few viewings now: it is as close to filmmaking perfection as you get.