A Jaw Dropping Masterpiece from Beginning to End

Wow what an incredible masterpiece!

I knew I was in for a treat going into this film but never in a million years did I think this movie would make it into one of my favourite films of all time! My top four films of all time being Unbroken (2014), Logan (2017), The Dark Knight (2008), and now 1917 (2019).

A jaw dropping masterpiece from beginning to end, 1917 defies all expectations of ‘just another war movie’ and immerses the viewer into one of the most tragic events in human history.

Overall Plot

The story is set in 1917 (duh!) during World War I in France. Two British soldiers are given the impossible mission to hand-deliver a message to the 2ndbattalion of the Devonshire Regiment to call off their attack on the German forces who are setting a trap for them, which would lead to eventual death of 1,600 British soldiers.

Actors

The film follows the two soldiers, Tom Blake played by Dean-Charles Chapman (Game of Thrones) and Will Schofieldplayed by George MacKay (How I Live Now, Marrowbone).

There are other actors showcased in the film such as Mark Strong (Sherlock Holmes, Kingsman) as Captain Smith and Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange, The Imitation Game) as Colonel Mackenzie, however, Chapman and Mackay take 90% of the screen time.

I thought the acting in this film was exceptional. Both Chapman and Mackay were impeccable in selling the tragic reality of being a soldier during the War. Chapman has really grown into an actor after his days as King Tomen in Game of Thrones and Mackay shines in his performance and delivery.

However, the director, Sam Mendes, is the one that truly shines in this film. The directing of the film is ambitious and accomplishes the effect of one continuous take which leaves the viewer in awe wondering how this 119-minute film was shot and the impeccable choreography needed to pull it off.

Cinematography and score

One of my favourite parts of the film is a night scene that is shot in the ruins of a city occupied by German soldiers. The lighting effect along with the score was bone chilling and made me feel as if I had been tricked into watching horror film.

Set and Costume Design

The set and costume design in this film was immaculate and spectacular. Due to the carefully choreographed long takes I can only imagine the difficulty in which the set designers had to operate in. Their execution was exquisite.

Box Office and Awards

Due to the success of this film at the Golden Globes (winning best picture and best director) I believe it will do very well at the Box Office. The word of mouth for the film will spread like wildfire within the next couple of weeks. It is a must-see and it must be experienced on the big screen.

As for its awards chances for the upcoming Oscars, give it all the awards!!