A technical masterpiece, Empty at emotional core

Rating: 7/10 (24 July 2017)

Dunkirk and Saving private Ryan both movies are based in WWll but there is a huge difference. On one hand Saving private Ryan relies on human emotions and depth, Dunkirk relies on visuals and effects. Which is definitely a bad thing for a war drama where film lacks the emotional depth which should be generated after watching a war movie ( like in Schindler's list, SPR).
Dunkirk, almost as War for the Planet of the Apes, plays out without much dialogue, leaning on just the background score and effects in most scenes. It almost goes without saying that Hans Zimmer delivers with another incredible score. The sound design is also extremely well crafted. The sound of planes passing above, the gunfire, and the explosions all contribute to a compelling thriller like situation, almost similar to Saving Private Ryan.
The cinematography is great. The effects in this film are breathtaking. The casting, authenticity, WWII vehicles are on spot. The best part about movie was the minimal use of CGI, which are the dominating part of action in the movies these days.
While the characters in this film aren't that interesting, Harry Styles, is excellent at his debut. Mark Rylance, Kenneth Branagh, and Fionn Whitehead also all give standout performances despite the limited screen time they are given. The only character in the movie which I cared for was Mark Rylance's.
The concept of three parts coming together, the beach, the sea, and the air is an interesting idea.
I should love this film. Historical drama? Compelling story? WWII setting? One of my favorite director ? Amazing cinematography? Mind blowing sound? Superb performances from an ensemble cast? All of these elements made me sure I would love this going in. But, Dunkirk's lack of emotional connection.
If I reviewed this based on technical achievement.. it's a 5 star rated movie. But it lacks the emotional depth and it had nothing extra ordinary to take home. I simply can not put this in the list with Saving private Ryan and Schindler's list.
At the risk of sounding like a person.. trying to take a different stand, I did not love this film. Do I love elements of this? Yes. Is this a 5-star movie? Definitely and Unfortunately, no.