any shortcomings are redeemed by top-notch acting

Rating: Null/10 (17 November 2018)

In May of 1940, the Wehrmacht continues to encroach across Western Europe causing the British Parliament to lose faith in the leadership of Neville Chamberlain. The search for a successor begins, but the only candidate that opposing parties will accept is the cantankerous, hard-drinking, cigar smoking Winston Churchill-a polarizing figure who is without principle and insufferable to some (including his wife Clemmie), and a tough, uncompromising leader to others. Tension becomes especially high amongst government officials as they try to resolve the conflict at Dunkirk. Director Wright plunges viewers right into the heart of old English politics with crucial decision-making, volatile character interactions, and an imminent threat of annihilation, but without a doubt the real highlight is an electrifying Oldman who embodies the many shades of Churchill, from surly and stubborn, to doubtful and ultimately good-hearted. The anticlimactic finale is a bit of a letdown, but the acting alone makes it worth the viewing experience. ***