Few directors have the track record of Paul Thomas Anderson.

Since debuting with Hard Eight in 1996, Anderson has had an unprecedented run of critical successes, making him considered one of the greatest director’s of his time, if not ever. Boogie Nights, Magnolia, Punch-Drunk Love and There Will Be Blood. It’s hard to find a week point. Ok, maybe the one that stars Adam Sandler.

This fall, however, he returns after five years of creative silence with The Master.

Starring Phillip Seymore Hoffman as a WWII vet who decides to start a new religion, called “The Cause”. Given Hoffman’s look and the history of the character, it’s pretty clear that the movie is a thinly veiled look at the world of Scientology - and based on the first trailer, looks absolutely fascinating. Check it out.

Yes, that's the acting return of Joaquin Phoenix, and wow, this trailer reminded me quickly of how damn good he can be. For the fellow Radiohead nerds, I'm proud to say that Jonny Greenwood is returning to score the film.

The Master hits theaters on October 12th, 2012. Expect Oscar nods to follow.

Source: /Film.