I can’t say I’m a fan of the tone of this piece. I’m not a Del Toro stan and think his films over rely on the strengths of his production and “creature” design rather than directorial skill or his scripts. But nonetheless I’m glad he can make a film about a woman fucking a fish monster and it becoming a serious awards contender. I’m glad that he can still make his passion projects. I’ll admit that he is also a charming and enthusiastic presence in interviews that warm me over, someone I’d like to have dinner with.
I do think Adam Nayman is a very talented film writer though. This piece that was just published today is probably the best written on The Master: https://www.theringer.com/movies/2017/12/29/16828404/paul-thomas-anderson-the-master-phantom-thread