1917

Synopsis: During World War I, two British soldiers -- Lance Cpl. Schofield and Lance Cpl. Blake -- receive seemingly impossible orders. In a race against time, they must cross over into enemy territory to deliver a message that could potentially save 1,600 of their fellow comrades -- including Blake's own brother.

Movie Review:

“1917” is a war movie that takes place during WWI and is directed by Sam Mendes. In my opinion this movie is the best war movie since “Saving Private Ryan”. Sam Mendes did an amazing job creating a one shot-continuous-take film with no cuts. And to experience it fully, this film should be seen on the biggest screen possible. “1917” makes you feel that you are back in World War I experiencing the tension, anxiety, and harsh conditions that these young men had to go through during this dark time in our history. Roger Deakins who did the cinematography for this movie was masterful with its realistic scene shots; it is probably his best work since “Blade Runner 2049”. “1917” focuses more on plot development, so this is not a film with a lot of character development. There isn’t much backstory detailing its two main characters, Lance Corporal Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) and Lance Corporal Schofield (George Mackay) rather it's more about the mission they had. One of my favorite scenes is when Schofield runs for his life after being chased by the Germans. The scene is well shot, intense and full of energy. It had me on the edge of my seat. Chapman and Mackay gave outstanding performances as these two young heroic soldiers. I, also, enjoyed watching the various British actors' cameos of Colin Forth, Mark Strong, Andrew Scott, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Richard Madden. I wish they had more screen time, but this film is really about Blake and Schofield warning the troops of the trap. “1917” is an awakening of a long forgotten war and period in history. This achievement in filmmaking and directing is one of the most intense and emotional films of the year. I highly recommend you see this movie. I am giving “1917” a 5 out of 5 stars.

Director: Sam Mendes

Cast: Dean-Charles Chapman, George Mackay, Andrew Scott, Mark Strong, Benedict Cumberbatch with Richard Madden and Colin Firth

Runtime: 119 minutes