How Vicky Krieps Broke Through Daniel Day-Lewis’ Method Acting On The Set Of ‘Phantom Thread’

For most actors, particularly those on the rise, getting the chance to stand opposite Daniel Day-Lewis is a rare, yet intimidating proposition. The actor’s rigorous method approach — which has generally seen him learn everything about the role he’s playing while taking on new skills and staying in character at all times on set — can make him a force to be reckoned with to those who are unprepared. So one might imagine that “Phantom Thread” star Vicky Krieps, largely unknown before her role in Paul Thomas Anderson‘s film, might have been uncertain as to how to navigate her titanic co-star. However, she quickly found a solution.

In a profile in the Evening Standard, Krieps reveals that she broke protocol on the set of “Phantom Thread,” and walked right up to Day-Lewis and engaged with him as Reynolds Woodcock. Despite the warnings, it turned out to be a delightful experience that continued throughout the shoot:

Having met Day-Lewis just once briefly in the flesh, Krieps — playing a waitress, Alma, who marries Reynolds — then had to wait until their first take together to meet him again (Day-Lewis insisted on it), and quickly found the lack of interaction and ‘screen of whispers’ too much to bear. 

So, she did the unthinkable. She broke through the screen. ‘One day, between takes, I left my green room, and said: “I want to see Reynolds.”’ She laughs as she remembers it. ‘The first [crew member] said, “Oh, no, no, you can’t.” But I kept walking. And then I walked past a few others who said, “No, really, you can’t do this.” But I’d had it up to here. Finally, I got to the door of his green room and knocked. I didn’t know what would happen. Would I be screamed at?’ 

Happily, no. ‘He opened the door and said, “Alma!” And we had tea together and a lovely conversation about music and Virginia Woolf. From then on, it became a regular thing; we would meet between takes, in character, and just… talk.’

That’s a pretty lovely anecdote and it says a lot about Krieps rising to the occasion and Day-Lewis rolling with punches, as well as finding a way to welcome a young actor, without sacrificing his process.

“Phantom Thread” is now playing.