Darkest Hour Review

Rating: 8/10 (14 February 2018)

Darkest Hour is a film directed by Joe wright. At first when I watched the trailer for this film, I was impressed seeing Gary Oldman. He was almost unrecognizable. And after the film festivals said that he was the top choice for Best Actor, I felt that I should give this film a watch. Finally, After watching this film I can say that everyone was right.
Plot: During he early 1940's Winston Churchill is elected as prime minister of UK much to the dismay of many people.
Story and direction: Let me say very frankly that I had doubts regarding this film since the very initial reviews for this film in IMDB were not that good. But after the film released the my faith in this film got restored. Yes the film has faults in certain places but I can still say that it is a decent watch. The film starts off quite nicely. We can feel the tension that is mounting on screen. Then we immediately shift to Churchill and his life. The portrayal of him was what made much of the film. Also the characters surrounding his personal life were good in their own way. The characters of the parliament were captivating. Kudos to the makeup and production design team. The atmosphere of the 1940 was very well maintained. Also the photography. It was spectacular. It never felt superficial. I felt like I was living during that era. The story started off great initially. But after an hour or so the pace seems to be a bit uneven. But again during the scenes towards the climax the pace is regained. Also the film felt quite cliched from the political perspective like people not liking Churchill, deciding for no confidence vote, etc...
Performances: Gary Oldman deserves a standing ovation and all the praise he is getting. That first scene in his bedroom where he is with a cigar, wine and English breakfast sealed his fate. I mean after some four hour makeup, who can maintain a diction like that? Kudos to him. Kristin Scott Thomas was great too as Churchill's caring and supportive wife. Lily James' role although was limited but she was impressive. She continues to prove that she is a great actress. Ben Mendelsohn was also good as the King.Ronald Pickup and Stephen Dillane were equally significant in their roles.
Favorite Scene: Many would say the speech scenes were great. And it would be a very easy statement just for anyone since they are meant to create impact. But for me it would be the scene in the London Underground with the commoners. I didn't kind of expect that scene. But still the sense of responsibility towards the people and knowing what the people want is what attarcted me to this particular scene.
Verdict: Even with its flaws, this film is a intense and applaudable in its own way. Joe wright very meticulously interweaved this film. Although the film is titled Darkest Hour, I would say that my 2 hours were well spent.
I am going with an 8.5/10.