Audiences find themselves repeatedly drawn back to this war film, now regarded as a contemporary classic, as they confess to ‘rewatching’ the ‘masterpiece’, which is currently available to stream.
The British war drama arrived in cinemas in 2019, and has since established itself as a firm favourite amongst genre enthusiasts who rank it alongside the finest ever made.
Entitled 1917, the film’s greatest appeal appears to lie in its authentic portrayal of warfare, inspired by genuine accounts from the director’s own family. Sam Mendes’s grandfather, Alfred, shared numerous tales of his experiences as a British soldier during the First World War, and these recollections proved instrumental in shaping the finished production.
Against this backdrop, 1917 unfolds during that pivotal year, following the German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line throughout Operation Alberich. The narrative centres on two British soldiers tasked with a vital mission to deliver an urgent message halting an offensive strike before disaster strikes.
A fan described the film on Rotten Tomatoes, saying: “Another one of my favourite war movies. I’ve watched around 5 times and will continue to rewatch.”
The award-winning film features an all-star cast(Image: Universal Pictures)
Many viewers have lauded the production for its technical achievements, including special effects and sound design, resulting in 10 Oscar nominations following its release. Ultimately, it secured the awards for Best Cinematography, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Visual Effects – accolades which devotees consider thoroughly deserved.
One review says: “Technically perfect and with surprisingly well-done dramatic development. So fluid the way the drama layers are portrayed here. 1917 is peak cinema.”
Another said: “The way it’s shot makes every moment feel immediate, pulling you into the journey from start to finish. This was great!”.
However, the acclaim extends beyond the film’s visual style, with the cast earning considerable recognition for their efforts in bringing this poignant tale to the screen. The ensemble includes George MacKay, Andrew Scott, Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch and Richard Madden.
The film went on to win several Academy Awards(Image: Netflix)
Highlighting this, one reviewer said: “Beautiful and haunting cinematography. The film appears to be taken in one shot, as if you’re with the main character throughout the film.
“Incredible performances from the main characters William Schofield – played by George MacKay and Tom Blake – played by Dean-Charles Chapman. Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch made very timely appearances.”
A crucial aspect of this production, which distinguishes it as audiences report being captivated from “start to finish”, is how it was deliberately constructed to resemble two uninterrupted takes. The entire picture feels remarkably “immersive” as a consequence, and it’s the partnership between editor and cinematographer on this approach that secured those significant Oscar victories.
On the review platform Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts an impressive rating of 88%, and it’s apparent that audiences continue to revisit it years after its release.
For those who appreciate war narratives, this makes an ideal starting point during your next browse through streaming services, though it carries a cautionary note, as viewers report being left “haunted”.