When it comes to war and cinema there really has not been a stone left unturned. From Revolutionary, to Civil, down to Vietnam, war movies have told some of the most dramatic stories of human triumph and loss of our time. Sam Mendes continues that tradition with the war drama 1917. Using a lesser celebrated war, World War I, Mendes is able to tap into backdrops and dynamics that are not often used in war cinema. Along with using lesser known actors to carry the heavy weight of the film, Mendes masterfully crafts a film that conveys the many emotions and complexities brought on by war of such epic scale.

Dean-Charles Chapman (Lance Corporal Blake) and George MacKay (Lance Corporal Schofield) are not the familiar faces you are accustomed to seeing when making a film of such scale. However with two great performances from each actor, combined with not having any preconceived expectations from them, you are able to quickly attach yourself to their characters which is essential to the telling of their story. The events told in 1917 take place in the span of 2 days so there is not much room for character development. MacKay and Chapman do a great job of portraying young men in the midst of world altering events that will change their lives as well as the landscape of the world. Colin Firth (General Erinmore) and Benedict Cumberbatch (Colonel MAcKenzie) have very minor roles but their presence conveys the weight their characters needed. 1917 was casted as well as it was written and directed.

Aside from a well written story and excellent character portrayals 1917 is a visual masterpiece. Too often war becomes a character in these type of films. Mendes is able to use a world war as an amazing backdrop for his characters while keeping the heavy tone that war demands. The cinematography amazingly shows the many facets of war and its affects. The shots in 1917 are able to portray the savagery of war while also showing the fascinating strategy of the time. It somehow manages to focus on the horror while expressing compassion, beauty alongside savagery, triumph simultaneously with loss. This comes from the ability to have a fantastic vision and the talent of execution. Mendes does not need to use excessive gore, explosions, or battles to express the seriousness and tone of war. He uses the perfect amount of every aspect as if he was a master chef preparing a signature dish. Every angle and shot shows a clear vision of true genius. 1917 is a film for all audiences that can handle intensity. Not of violence or brutality, but intense emotion. 1917 will grab your attention throughout its entirety while also holding your heart along its journey.