rudrangsh gupta

1917 (Movie Review): A War Film Like No Other. While 2019 has been one of the best years for films, 1917 may very well be the best film to come out this year. Having already won the Golden Globe for best film (drama) this year, 1917 is one of the finest war movies of all time, which will be remembered for years to come. Blake and Schofield, two Lance Corporals in the British army are given the near-impossible task of delivering of a message to the second battalion of the Devon Regiment, asking them to call off their planned attack on the Germans, which could cost the lives of 1,600 soldiers, among which included Blake’s elder brother, a Lieutenant in the Devon Regiment. What entails is a race against time, where the two soldiers must make the journey to the French town of Ecoust (where the Devon Regiment is stationed) before the attack, which is an apparent trap set up by the Germans. A few minutes into the film one can evidently notice the work of sheer brilliance as we witness the journey of two young, seemingly innocent soldiers, which is nothing short of inspirational. The dialogues are deep and effective, which not only move the audience, but make them laugh on certain occasions and allow them to ponder on other occasions. The leading cast deliver strong performances in this stirring drama. It is disappointing to see George MacKay miss out on an Oscar nomination this year for his performance as Schofield. Thomas Newman’s award potential background score ensures that the audience are on the edge of their seat throughout the film. However, what makes this war drama a timeless masterpiece is Roger Deakins’ magical cinematography which consumes the audience in every frame. From cherry flower scenes to the gruesome scenes of war, the viewers remain captivated throughout. The film captures the horrors of war effectively, while giving the audience moments of shock as well as hope. (Watch out for the scene where Schofield makes the final run to deliver the message.) Inspired by the tales of his grandfather, Sam Mendes delivers arguably the best film of the year. Sam Mendes’ Single-shot masterpiece is definitely an Oscar favourite and one must simply not miss out on this film, which takes us down to the trenches of the first world war, leaving us shook by the end of the film.