A Masterful WWI Drama

Rating: 9/10 (20 January 2020)

"1917" is perhaps the most ambitious film set during the Great War. Director Sam Mendes and director of photography Roger Deakins took a risk in presenting this film as one long take. There decision paid off in the most brilliant way. Deakins once again shows his mastery of light and lens. What he's done is he's crafted a visually stunning world without sacrificing story. There are multiple key moments that are told beautifully through the lens and mind of Deakins. A lesser cinematographer would have simply filmed the action on screen without taking into consideration the language of film through the visual medium. Nearly every frame in the film reveals something about the characters and the position they find themselves in. Dean-Charles Chapman and George MacKay deliver engaging and thrilling performances. MacKay commands the screen every moment he is on it. This is a film that feels both large and small simultaneously. The intimacy of the story of the two young men aiming to send a vital message to Colonel Mackenzie is entirely brilliant. At the same moment, the massive scope of what their failure or success will ultimately affect can be felt all the way through the film. At its core this film is a story of brotherhood and humanity. It's an absolute gem and is no doubt worthy of remembrance.