1917 (2019) Review
2019 British war film directed and produced by Sam Mendes
"1917" is a 2019 war film directed by Sam Mendes, set during World War I. The movie follows the journey of two young British soldiers, Lance Corporal Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) and Lance Corporal Schofield (George MacKay), who are tasked with delivering a crucial message to stop an attack that could lead to the deaths of hundreds of soldiers, including Blake's brother. The film is shot in a continuous one-shot style, which gives the impression that the events are happening in real-time and adds to the tension and realism of the story.
The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking cinematography that captures the horrors of war in a way that is both haunting and beautiful. The movie is shot in a way that makes it feel like the audience is right there with the soldiers, experiencing the chaos and danger of the battlefield. The film's use of long, uninterrupted shots is a technical marvel and adds to the realism and intensity of the story.
The acting in the film is exceptional, with both Chapman and MacKay giving powerful performances as the two soldiers. Their chemistry and camaraderie feel genuine, and the audience becomes invested in their journey from the start. The film also features a star-studded supporting cast, including Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth, and Mark Strong, who all deliver excellent performances in their respective roles.
One of the most impressive aspects of the film is the attention to detail that went into recreating the setting of World War I. The costumes, weapons, and vehicles all feel authentic, and the film captures the grim and brutal nature of trench warfare. The film also does an excellent job of highlighting the futility and senselessness of war, and the toll that it takes on the soldiers who fight in it.
The film's score, composed by Thomas Newman, is haunting and beautiful and perfectly complements the visuals on screen. The music adds to the emotional weight of the story and helps to convey the sense of danger and urgency that the soldiers face.
The film is not without its flaws, however. Some viewers may find the one-shot style to be distracting or gimmicky, and there are moments where the film feels overly melodramatic. Additionally, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, and their appearances feel like little more than cameos.
Despite these minor criticisms, "1917" is a stunning achievement in filmmaking, and a powerful reminder of the horrors of war. The film's message about the importance of sacrifice and the bonds of brotherhood is both poignant and timely, and the film is sure to leave a lasting impact on viewers.
In addition to its technical and visual achievements, "1917" also stands out for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling. The film explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the human cost of war, and it does so in a way that feels both authentic and moving. The film's depiction of the trenches and battlefields of World War I is harrowing and realistic, and the violence and brutality of war are never shied away from.
One of the most impressive aspects of the film is how it uses its continuous one-shot style to immerse the audience in the story. By never cutting away or breaking the continuity of the scene, the film creates a sense of urgency and tension that is impossible to replicate in a more traditional editing style. The audience is forced to experience the events of the film in real-time, and this adds to the sense of danger and unpredictability that the soldiers face.
In conclusion, "1917" is a must-watch for anyone who loves powerful storytelling, stunning visuals, and excellent filmmaking. The film is a technical marvel and a cinematic achievement, and its message about the senselessness of war and the importance of human connection is one that is sure to resonate with audiences for years to come.
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