“There will be blood” is a gritty tale of a man taken by hatred and greed. Set in the early 19th century California frontier and starring Daniel Day-Lewis and Martin Stringer, this film is a story of how much a man can accomplish yet still have nothing worth loving.

The film also contains a current of anti-religious sentiment expressed by the presence of a laughable and even despicable young prophet who seems to be a charlatan of the lowest quality. “There will be blood” might be used well in classrooms for discussion. Although it may be an Oscar contender, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Rated R for violence.