Quoted to be one of the best war movies to be made, 1917 directed under the talented hands of Sam Mendes made quite the news at the 2020 Academy Awards.
The technical categories of Best Achievement in Cinematography, Best Achievement in Visual Effects, and Best Achievement in Sound Mixing were all won by this brilliantly orchestrated film.
The movie revolves around the horrific elements of trench warfare during World War I where two British soldiers are tasked with a rather impossible job which, if carried out well, could save the lives of billions of soldiers. From the inception itself, the film rolls out with these two characters- Lance Corporal Blake and Lance Corporal Schofield, played by Dean-Charles Chapman and George MacKay.
They are entrusted with the duty of warning their troops at the frontline about the trap which was set by the invading German troops. The two young stars have given excellent performances, and the audience is taken on a roller coaster with new problems around every corner.
The most striking feature of the movie is its cinematography which received a lot of applause from critics and film lovers across the world. The movie is shot and edited in such a way that it appears to be one continuous shot. Each frame beautifully absorbs the quality of life and living of that period.
Every sequence looks like a choreographed dance routine that flows smoothly through the entire course of the movie. Using precision blocking, the edits are camouflaged together which adds to the charm of the film.
The film’s impressive appearances by many of the British performers, including Andrew Scott, Colin Firth, Mark Strong, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Richard Madden as army personnel, are a highlight.
The film keeps you on the edge of your seat as the film depicts the horrific reality of war. The entire course which the two warriors must complete is emotionally and physically challenging and draining on their spirits, but witnessing their unwavering determination to reach the finish line is a delight.
Though it may have started out as a soldier’s mission, it eventually turns out to be a human journey of returning home. The long road of their survival is filled with scenes of bravery, forgiveness and treachery which paints a picture of how much ever movies may try to glorify the war, it will always remain ruthless when it comes to the lives lost and the destruction caused.
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