[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”32357″ img_size=”900×600″ alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]Synopsis:
Two young British privates during the First World War are given an impossible mission: deliver a message deep in enemy territory that will stop 1,600 men, and one of the soldier’s brothers, from walking straight into a deadly trap.
It’s not often that I get to use phrases like, “instant classic” or “cinematographic masterpiece” but this film is both of those things. 1917 is a truly thrilling, immersive experience and one of the best pictures of the year. The last time I felt the same level of immersion was viewing a movie in a ScreenX theater. You will be shaken by the body riddled landscapes, captivated by the cinematography, and amazed by the journey. It’s not simply a period piece, as a matter of fact, you don’t need to know anything about World War I to enjoy it. However, having a little knowledge about the war may result in it being more enjoyable. Essentially, this drama/thriller focuses more on the characters rather than the war itself. It’s about seeing the unrelenting drive of two young men tasked with a near-impossible mission in delivering a message on foot, miles away, through enemy territory to save their fellow soldiers and it’s powerful and moving to behold. With its haunting score and continuous shot camera work, it’s a visceral experience that you’ll regret missing. In addition to it being shot as one continuous shot, it puts the viewer right next to the soldiers on their journey and in the trenches. Getting the first-person point of view of the carnage, frustration, and bravery of war makes it feel very authentic. One of the most incredible facts about the film is that it is inspired by a true story that director Sam Mendes’ grandfather told to him as a child. After knowing that, it makes the film exponentially more amazing. Not only did I thoroughly enjoy this film but I will definitely be seeing it again.
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From start to finish, this film is paced perfectly. It wastes no time exposing the audience to the harsh realities of being at war. Soldiers are terribly injured, sleep-deprived, and in cramp conditions. As the war had already been going for almost three years, it almost immediately gets to the mission. British Lance Corporals Blake and Schofield are tasked with delivering a message that would stop 1,600 soldiers from walking into an ambush that would result in their deaths. Once they leave their camp to go on their mission they see all the carnage and dismay the war has caused. Horses lay decaying, covered in blood and mud with ribs exposed. Bullet filled bodies are now apart of the earth as their faces are feasted on by large rats. Nonetheless, they have a job to do and failure is not an option. To add extra motivation, one of them has a brother that is apart of the 1,600 that would fall victim to the ambush. The two must overcome many deadly obstacles. Anything that can go wrong indeed does.
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Characters & Chemistry
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Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
