No Small Parts Season 3 Episode 54 Daniel Day-Lewis

"No Small Parts" is a web series that explores the careers of character actors and their contributions to the entertainment industry. Season 3, Episode 54 is dedicated to the iconic and enigmatic actor Daniel Day-Lewis, known for his transformative performances and dedication to his craft.

The episode begins by tracing Day-Lewis's early life and how he was drawn to acting. We learn about his classical training at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and his early stage work in England. We also hear from his co-stars and directors about what sets Day-Lewis apart from other actors – his ability to inhabit a character completely, to the point where he seems almost unrecognizable, and his intense preparation for every role.

The show takes a deep dive into several of Day-Lewis's most famous roles, starting with "My Left Foot," for which he won his first Academy Award. We see archival footage of his acceptance speech, where he dedicates the award to his "mentor and inspiration," the late Irish artist Christy Brown, on whose autobiography the film was based. We also hear from director Jim Sheridan and co-star Brenda Fricker about their experiences working with Day-Lewis on the film.

Next, the episode explores Day-Lewis's collaborations with director Martin Scorsese, including "Gangs of New York," "The Age of Innocence," and "The Last Temptation of Christ." We learn about the rigorous research and preparation that went into each role, such as learning to speak in a specific accent or mastering a specific skill like butchery. We also see behind-the-scenes footage of Day-Lewis with his co-stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Cameron Diaz.

The show also covers Day-Lewis's work with other notable directors, such as Steven Spielberg on "Lincoln," for which he won his third Academy Award for Best Actor. We hear about how Day-Lewis approached playing one of the most revered figures in American history, and how he brought a sense of humanity and humor to the role. We also hear from his co-stars, including Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones, about their experiences working with him.

The episode doesn't shy away from discussing Day-Lewis's reputation for being a method actor, and the lengths he goes to fully immerse himself in a role. We hear about how he stayed in character as Bill "The Butcher" Cutting for the entire shoot of "Gangs of New York," even off-camera, and how he learned to build a canoe from scratch for his role in "The Last of the Mohicans." We also hear from his wife, director Rebecca Miller, about how he approaches his craft and how he maintains his focus and dedication.

Throughout the episode, we see clips from Day-Lewis's films and performances, highlighting the wide range of characters he has portrayed – from an Irish artist with cerebral palsy to a ruthless oil tycoon to Abraham Lincoln himself. We also learn about his decision to retire from acting after his role in "Phantom Thread," and what his legacy as an actor might be.

Overall, "No Small Parts" Season 3, Episode 54 is a fascinating look at one of the greatest actors of our time and the dedication and passion he brings to his craft. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the art of acting and the power of a truly transformative performance.