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Review: 1917 (2019)

Review: 1917 (2019)
23 Mar
2021
Not in Hall of Fame

Cast:

Dean-Charles Chapman             Lance Corporal Blake

George MacKay                        Lance Corporal Schofield

Colin Firth                                 General Erinmore

Andrew Scott                            Lieutenant Leslie

Benedict Cumberbatch              Colonel Mackenzie

Mark Strong                              Captain Smith

Another weekend has arrived in this COVID filled planet and my wife and I chose another film for our viewing pleasure. For this week, we put 1917 into the Blu-ray player. I have had this film for awhile and had not yet gotten around to watching it, but once selected I was really looking forward to it.  So after charging my wine glass (this means filling it for those readers who are not familiar with the military vernacular), adjusted the recliner and started the film.

For the few people who have not heard of the film or watched it (2 less now since we watched it this weekend), 1917 is a film about which captures pretty much a 12-hour period in WW 1, and more specifically the actions of Lance Corporals Blake (Chapman) and Schofield (MacKay) as they deliver an important command from their General to that of a Regimental Commander (Col Mackenzie played by Benedict Cumberbatch). To further add tension and impetus to their mission, Lance Corporal Blake’s (Chapman) brother is an officer in that regiment, and these order’s could not only save the life of his brother, but also ensure that a whole regiment of 1600 men do not get slaughtered.

Pretty much, that is the story in a nutshell, two intrepid soldiers delivering the General’s orders to the Colonel located miles away. Their journey is fraught with danger as they cross the no-mans land between the two opposing forces, snipers, German soldiers and the confusion of war. As this film captures basically a moment in time with respect to the first world war, it does not try to analyze which side is right or wrong, or give any message of morality. Instead it demonstrates the Brotherhood of War, how soldiers in wartime become brothers, how they risk their lives for each other, not for King or country. The mission success is a bonus; the real success is that they make it through the conflict together. To me, that was the film. 

While the plot was really the soldiers journey, both physical and mental, I must commend the two main characters Lance Corporals Blake and Schofield played by Chapman and MacKay respectively. While both actors were relatively unknown to me, either I had not watched anything that they did, or what I did watch them in, their role was a minor supporting one. I was extremely impressed with not only their acting in this role, but also the chemistry that they portrayed with each other. The determination to succeed and fulfill their Commanding Officer’s mission was clearly evident, and was only surpassed by Blake’s (Chapman) need to save his brother from potential death. The cinematography was fantastic and the film felt that it was presented in all one continuous shot. While it was not, it was so skilfully edited and filmed that the appearance of it being continuous was just amazing. It kept you glued to your seat as you watched the heroes trudge through the muddy battlefield to their ultimate destination. Additionally, not only was the cinematography and scenes bang-on, but for me the costumes and props were also relatively accurate. I did have to look up a few things, for example the flashlights that Blake and Schofield carried. While that design was prevalent, it was mainly for officers. However, at least they were right for the period. Another thing I had to look up was if the British army had integrated units, and I did find out that in WWI, there were some British units that were integrated. So, it was still another part of the film that was factually accurate which also enhanced my enjoyment of the film.

While there are a number of relatively big names in this film, their screen time is actually quite minimal. Their performances were used so skillfully to enhance the story and provide the proper gravitas or impetus as needed. Another example of excellent acting, directing and writing!

Now it is time to take a look at the principal actors in this film. I have included the big names who were actually in supporting roles to discuss their part.

Dean-Charles Chapmanas Lance Corporal Blake: It took me a few minutes to recognize Blake from his role in the Game of Thrones, but I must say, the presentation he does as Lance Corporal Blake is just great. He reminded me of several other young soldiers that I had served with over the years. His sense of duty and determination were clearly evident throughout the film. His portrayal was believable and it wanted you to follow him through his journey. His chemistry with his co-star, Mackay, was excellent throughout their scenes together. For me, the role got me to notice Chapman as an actor, while his previous roles that I had watched he was just part of the scenery. This part was a great jumping point for his career and I look forward to seeing him in future productions. 

George MacKayas Lance Corporal Schofield: In the case of MacKay, while he has been around quite a while, I had not seen him in any of his films or shows. However, having said that I was quite impressed with his ability and screen presence. As the co-lead if you will, he had great chemistry with Chapman as well as the other main stars of the film. He projected the stoicism of a soldier who had seen the horrors while still imparting empathy. He embodied the concept of the Brotherhood of War and how relationships forged in fire truly last. His character, and MacKay as the actor carried the film to its successful conclusion, as in the case of Chapman, I look forward to seeing him in future productions.

Colin Firth as General Erinmore: Firth only has a small role in the start of the film as the commanding General who gives our heroes their mission. An accomplished actor, his skill in stage and screen were evident as he imparted the urgency of the mission to the soldiers. Not only did he act the part, but he also looked it as well, he truly portrayed a stereotypical British General. Another fine, but short role for Firth.

Andrew Scott as Lieutenant Leslie: Another well known star with a small supporting role. Scott’s version of Leslie was excellent in his representation of a no-nonsense, war-weary officer. Displaying the dry humour, in a tired, yet also in an educational fashion was also extremely well done. The few minutes of screen time that he had were excellent and in my opinion added to the backdrop of the story.

Benedict Cumberbatch  as Colonel Mackenzie: Cumberbatch can command a scene when he is in it, regardless if he is Sherlock Holmes or Khan, he is the scene, and he will keep you riveted while there. Cumberbatch’s only screen presence throughout the film is at the climax when the hero finds him to deliver the message. Once received, you can literally see him pondering the orders and analyzing results, much like he does when he has played Sherlock. A great, but short performance from Cumberbatch in an all round enjoyable film.

Mark Strong as Captain Smith: Strong is another actor who has been around for a while, and his presence also adds to the film. Playing a stereotypical officer of the British Army, he carries the swagger but also the wisdom well. It is his sage advice to Lance Corporal Schofield with helps him find the courage to confront Colonel Mackenzie in the final act of the film. A solid actor, with a solid performance.

As you can tell, I enjoyed the whole film, and while some scenes and secondary characters stood out, I will leave it to you, the viewer, to determine what scene will stand out for you. In my opinion this film stands out in the war film genre and should be included with other films/shows of the same calibre (Saving Private Ryan, Band of Brothers, Platoon, Patton, Hamburger Hill to name but a few). If you want to watch a good movie, I would highly recommend this film!

Our Rating: 9/10

If you are interested in other films/shows from the key cast members, please consider the following recommendations:

Dean-Charles Chapman             Game of Thrones, The Commuter

Colin Firth                                 Mama Mia, Kingsman: The Secret Service, The Kings Speech, The Last Legion, Bridget Jones Diary 

Andrew Scott                            Fleabag, Sherlock, Band of Brothers

Benedict Cumberbatch              Sherlock, Dr. Strange, Avengers: Endgame, The Imitation Game, Star Trek Into Darkness

Mark Strong                              Shazam, Kingsman: The Golden Circle, Zero Dark Thirty, Miss Sloane

Till Next Time!

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