Phantom Thread (2017)

Kernel Score: 84% · 3,731 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Drama, Romance

Released: 2017-12-25

Runtime: 130 minutes

Is Phantom Thread worth watching?

Worth watching. A fussy 1950s dressmaker and the young woman who becomes his muse. Paul Thomas Anderson's slow, elegant film is really about control in a relationship, and Daniel Day-Lewis is superb.

Watch it if you

  • like slow, beautifully made period dramas
  • enjoy a strange, controlling love story
  • admire fine acting and costume design

Skip it if you

  • want a plot-driven film
  • find cold, fussy characters tiresome

Best for: Quiet, stylish night in

Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.

Where to watch Phantom Thread

  • Stream: Netflix
  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

In 1950s London, a renowned dressmaker's meticulous lifestyle begins drastically changing as his relationship with his young muse intensifies.

Phantom Thread parents' guide: ages 14+

Parents need to know that Phantom Thread is an R-rated romantic drama about an obsessive relationship between a controlling fashion designer and his young muse.

  • Sex, romance & nudity: Some — The R rating and central romantic obsession between designer and muse suggest moderate sexual content.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like Phantom Thread

If you liked Phantom Thread, these are the movies we'd watch next.

  • There Will Be Blood (2007) — 89%: Same director and star, with a harder, more ruthless character.
  • Punch-Drunk Love (2002) — 81%: Anderson again, with an awkward, offbeat love story.
  • Magnolia (1999) — 88%: Anderson's sprawling ensemble drama about damaged people.
  • Pride & Prejudice (2005) — 89%: A polished period romance, more traditional.
  • The Bridges of Madison County (1995) — 86%: Quiet, mature love story built on small gestures.
  • Boogie Nights (1997) — 85%: Anderson's earlier portrait of a strange makeshift family.

Director

Paul Thomas Anderson

Cast

  • Daniel Day-Lewis as Reynolds Woodcock
  • Vicky Krieps as Alma Elson
  • Lesley Manville as Cyril Woodcock
  • Camilla Rutherford as Johanna
  • Gina McKee as Countess Henrietta Harding
  • Brian Gleeson as Dr. Robert Hardy
  • Harriet Sansom Harris as Barbara Rose
  • Lujza Richter as Princess Mona Braganza
  • Julia Davis as Lady Baltimore
  • Julie Vollono as London Housekeeper

Phantom Thread FAQ

Is Phantom Thread worth watching?

Worth watching. A fussy 1950s dressmaker and the young woman who becomes his muse. Paul Thomas Anderson's slow, elegant film is really about control in a relationship, and Daniel Day-Lewis is superb.

Where can I watch Phantom Thread?

In the US you can stream Phantom Thread on Netflix and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Phantom Thread OK for kids?

Phantom Thread is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 14+. Parents need to know that Phantom Thread is an R-rated romantic drama about an obsessive relationship between a controlling fashion designer and his young muse.

What movies are like Phantom Thread?

If you liked Phantom Thread, try There Will Be Blood, Punch-Drunk Love, Magnolia and Pride & Prejudice.