1917 (2019) – Movie Review

1917, directed by Sam Mendes, is an immersive and visually stunning World War I epic that stands out for its gripping narrative and technical brilliance. Released in 2019, the film is known for its innovative “one-shot” technique, making it feel like the entire story unfolds in real-time, immersing viewers into the trenches and battlefields of the First World War. With incredible cinematography by Roger Deakins and strong performances, 1917 is a harrowing and unforgettable cinematic experience that captures the horrors of war with intense realism.

Plot Summary

The film follows two young British soldiers, Lance Corporals Will Schofield (George MacKay) and Tom Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman), who are tasked with a seemingly impossible mission. They must cross enemy territory to deliver a message that could save the lives of 1,600 fellow soldiers, including Blake’s brother. The message warns a battalion that they are walking into a trap set by the Germans, who have feigned a retreat to lure them into a deadly ambush.

As the two soldiers journey across no-man’s-land, trenches, and war-torn landscapes, they encounter numerous life-threatening obstacles, from sniper fire to collapsing ruins and flooded trenches. The story unfolds in near-real time, emphasizing the urgency and danger of their mission.

Themes

1917 delves into the themes of duty, sacrifice, and the brutal realities of war. Schofield and Blake’s mission is not just about completing a task but about saving lives, including those of fellow soldiers who are unknowingly walking into death. The film explores the weight of responsibility placed on young soldiers, their bravery, and the often senseless violence of war.

One of the film’s central themes is survival. Schofield and Blake must constantly confront life-and-death situations, not only from enemy forces but also from the sheer desolation and destruction of the war-ravaged landscape. The movie also touches on the futility of war, showcasing the vast destruction and human cost of a conflict that often feels chaotic and meaningless.

Another theme is brotherhood. Blake’s motivation is deeply personal—his brother is among the men who will die if the message doesn’t get through in time. This personal connection drives him, and later Schofield, as they push through the harrowing journey, reminding viewers of the personal stakes behind the seemingly endless battle.

Performances

George MacKay delivers a standout performance as Lance Corporal Schofield. His portrayal of a soldier trying to stay composed and focused in the face of overwhelming odds is deeply compelling. MacKay’s physical and emotional commitment to the role—especially given the film’s unique continuous-shot style—is impressive, as he must carry much of the film’s emotional weight on his shoulders.

Dean-Charles Chapman, as Blake, gives a heartfelt and sincere performance, particularly in the film’s opening scenes, where his optimism and dedication to his brother’s safety are front and center. The bond between Blake and Schofield becomes the emotional core of the film.

The supporting cast includes brief but impactful appearances from notable actors such as Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Mark Strong. While their roles are minor, they add gravitas to the story, playing officers who guide or hinder the young soldiers on their perilous journey.

Cinematography and Technical Achievement

One of 1917’s most remarkable achievements is its cinematography, overseen by the legendary Roger Deakins. The film is designed to appear as though it’s shot in one continuous take, a technical marvel that enhances the sense of immediacy and tension. The camera follows Schofield and Blake through bombed-out trenches, across muddy battlefields, and into enemy territory, never cutting away, giving viewers the sense that they are experiencing the events in real time.

Deakins’ use of natural light and long, fluid tracking shots creates a visceral and immersive viewing experience, making the film visually stunning while also capturing the desolation and devastation of the war. The famous night sequence, where flares illuminate the ruins of a town in eerie, dreamlike fashion, is one of the film’s most haunting and memorable moments.

The score by Thomas Newman complements the visuals perfectly, building tension and emotional depth without overpowering the story. The music subtly underscores the film’s quieter, more contemplative moments, as well as the more intense and action-packed sequences.

Emotional Impact

1917 is a deeply emotional film, not only because of its depiction of war’s brutality but also because of the personal stakes involved in the characters’ mission. The relationship between Schofield and Blake, though understated, adds a human element to the story. The film’s real-time narrative creates an intense, nail-biting atmosphere, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as the soldiers race against time.

The film doesn’t rely on gratuitous violence or gore to convey the horrors of war. Instead, it shows the psychological and emotional toll on the soldiers, their exhaustion, fear, and determination to survive. The simplicity of the story—two men on a mission to save others—makes its emotional beats all the more powerful.

Verdict

1917 is a stunning technical achievement and a powerful war film that combines incredible cinematography, intense storytelling, and emotional depth. Sam Mendes, with the help of Roger Deakins’ visionary work, creates a gripping and immersive experience that pulls viewers into the heart of World War I’s chaos and devastation. George MacKay’s performance anchors the film, while the real-time, one-shot format keeps the tension high throughout.

The film is not only a testament to the courage and resilience of soldiers but also a reminder of the human cost of war. With its unforgettable visuals and emotional impact, 1917 is a must-watch for fans of war films and those who appreciate the art of filmmaking.