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1917 is the story of two soldiers, Blake and Schofield (played by Dean- Charles Chapman and George MacKay), who are tasked with crossing enemy territory in order to deliver a message to another regiment that will stop them running straight into a trap. The film is presented as one long take- something which director Sam Mendes has previously experimented with in the opening five minutes of Spectre. Using a gimmick can be risky. Take Birdman for example. Whilst watching that film I found myself constantly distracted by the camera work, to the point where I couldn’t focus on the story. However, Mendes has shown previous talent in this area- in what I consider to be one of the best James Bond scenes- and that talent is on display in full force again here. In 1917 you never find yourself distracted by the tracking shot, it only enhances the feeling that you are there with these characters witnessing everything at the same time as them and going on their journey with them. It also makes this film incredibly tense. As I said, we see everything at the same time as the characters which means that we are not privy to the obstacles they face. We have to play the waiting game with them- unaware of what enemies are around the corner until the moment we are face to face with them.

Much like Dunkirk, this film is facing complaints that the characters are under developed and one dimensional. I didn’t agree with that complaint then and I still don’t agree with it now. This film follows a day in the life of two soldiers, pretty much in real time. Giving them extensive backstories and character details would involve a lot of exposition, which wouldn’t be realistic between A) two characters who seem to know each over reasonably well and B) two characters in a situation like this. The personalities of the characters are conveyed by the performances of the two lead actors and the dialogue they are given. They’re likable and compelling in that moment in time on that particular day- I don’t need a biography for them to be invested in their mission.

Thomas Newman’s score is excellent here. In one particular scene in which Schofield runs through the ruins of a burning village at night, lit only by fire and sporadic flares illuminating the scene, I was honestly sat there with my mouth open in awe at what I was witnessing. The standout track on the soundtrack (‘The Night Window’ for any other geeks out there like me who sit listening to film scores) combined with Roger Deakins stunning (as always) cinematography, creates a scene which will certainly be a strong contender for my favourite scene of the year. I know its bold saying that in January- but that’s just how good it is.