1917

Intense, immersive, relentless! 1917 is a dramatic spectacle that you very rarely come across. It’s not often you get a film that has breathtaking cinematography, a resonant soundtrack and one of the most stacked casts a film will ever have. But this film has it all, and more.  After watching this film, I know there are going to be some moments that stick with me forever. Much like 2 of the main sequences. The first being the one in the ruined town on Écoust. What this sequence provides is some of the most beautiful shots in all of film. The burning ruins, the explosions lighting up the sky, the contrast of colour. I’m generally not a massive fan of art, but if this is how every painting looked, I would love it. Not only does it give you the outstanding cinematography, it also gives a visceral experience that makes your heart pound. I was genuinely shaking in my seat watching this scene and I absolutely love it. The other sequence I love is the during the final act. Where Corporal Schofield runs across a field of explosions, dropping bodies and more gunfire than anyone should ever have to see. Once again, this moment makes your heart race. It makes you understand the importance of the entire mission and how it all comes down to this final moment.  I massively enjoyed the one-shot illusion this film has. It allows you to be entirely immersed and feel as if you are there with the characters. The fluid camera movements through the trenches, no man land and the ruins was masterfully done by Roger Deakins, it gave you perspective on what the soldiers would have gone through and the horror they dealt with. I don’t think I could think of a better film that this style of shooting would apply to.  The last thing I must talk about is the fantastic performance from the entire cast. George MacKay brings emotion and power. Dean-Charles Chapman has a youthful determination that fits his character perfectly. And the rest of the cast all did brilliantly in there small yet important rolls.  Overall I think this film is sensational. I could go on about this film forever. And I might do so.