1917

Directed by: Sam Mendes

Release date: December 25th, 2019

Rating: 10/10

1917, directed by Sam Mendes, is the latest in a large assortment of war movies. Taking place during World War I, the film follows two young men as they are sent on a mission to stop an attack set to take place the next day that would cost thousands of lives. We’ve been given war movies for many decades, so what makes this one worth seeing?

One of the reasons that many people are excited about this movie is that it is shot to look like one take. I say “look like” because, as much as you might want to, it is impossible to film an entire 2 hour movie in one take. Still, most of the film is done in long, uninterrupted sequences and you’d be hard pressed to find where they’ve slipped in cuts. Besides being a cinematic achievement in and of itself, the movie never sacrifices quality for the long takes. The movie looks beautiful. From the lighting to the camera movements, not only is it impressive that it’s made to look like one take, but it looks great as well.

Another reason I feel this film separates itself from other war movies is that it isn’t focusing on a big battle, or even a small group that ends up in a famous battle. It is telling a story, yes still with high stakes, but about two people. Even though thousands of lives are on the line, it still feels like a more personal story than other war movies I’ve seen.

The pacing of the action is perfect as well. It’s not constant action all the time, but it slows down enough to give you a breath and then immediately picks right back up. I was never bored while watching this movie. The music also helps a great deal. The score is beautiful as well as filled with tension when it needs to be.

The last 15 minutes are full of tension and anticipation. Without spoiling anything, there’s a race against the clock and we aren’t sure if the characters are going to make it.

If you’re a fan of war movies, Rodger Deakins’ amazing cinematography, or even just big movies filled with action and tension, this is a great movie to watch. 1917 delivers exactly what I expected and more from a Sam Mendes and Rodger Deakins war movie. The cinematography is beyond excellent, the pacing of the action is perfect, the musical score blends perfectly with the atmosphere of the film, and the actors do an amazing job pulling you into the experience of being down in the trenches in World War I. Overall, one of my favorite war movies, and even movies in general, of all time.