10 Greatest Moments In Paul Thomas Anderson Movies

4. The First Processing (The Master)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taqZ74wHyhU If Daniel Day-Lewis didn't set the bar to an un-reachable height, I would be willing to say this is the greatest moment of acting in Anderson's filmography. This scene is brilliant because it introduces the Lancaster Dodd character perfectly while also bringing in the main theme of struggle between Freddie and Lancaster. The scene also shows the bizarre techniques and practices of The Cause that eventually lure Freddie into the cult. However, the real reason this scene is where it is on this list is the brilliant acting of Joaquin Phoenix. He really gives this scene his all when he is told to answer a series of questions without blinking and if he blinks the questions start over from the beginning. It is just amazing the way Anderson freely lets the camera stay on Freddie while he begins to realize his faults while giving Joaquin Phoenix a showcase for his insane commitment to the role.