1917 directed by Sam Mendes presents a real life story during World War I where, British Soldiers, Schofield (Captain Fantastic’s George MacKay) and Blake (Game of Thrones’ Dean-Charles Chapman) are assigned a task in which odds are stacked against them.
With the pressure of limited time, Blake and Schofield risk their lives delivering a message to ultimately save hundreds of soldiers, from a deadly attack. They enter rival territory, with the ambition to save others including Blake’s own brother.
Sam Mendes explained that the film was inspired by his Grandfather Alfred Mendes who was a War Veteran in World War I. He furthers his explanation by stating that he remembers his grandfather tell him a tale about soldiers having to deliver a message.
This film provides an accurate representation of trench warfare between the Allied and Central Powers, where Germans decided to retreat in hopes to help their offense plans. With this plan, Germans led the British soldiers to believe that the were at a advantage, only to find out that at the Germans were ambushing them. The confusion of whether Germans retreated or were surprise attacking made the audience sit at the ends of there seats.
The movie gives realistic depictions of life in trenches, involving deceased animals and corpses entangles in barbwire, all allowing for a better understanding of the despicable living conditions.
The obstacles that were faced by the two soldiers shows the dangerous challenges that soldiers experienced daily. As Blake and Schofield entered enemy’s territory or “no mans Land” in northern France, after escaping grueling situations time after time, provided an uneasy feeling, that left the audience wanting to know more.
This Movie has been compared to Saving Private Ryan, because this famous war movie used similar techniques to provide insight on what happened in World War II. Both Movies receiving impeccable reviews, allows for a good movie night.
The entire hour and fifty nine minutes completely captures your attention with a thrilling, yet heart warming story that allows the American people to remember and appreciate why they love their country.
lily Mendes
Lily Mendes '21 is a senior at Redwood High School and is a second year member of the Redwood Gigantea. Outside of the Redwood Gigantea, Lily is apart of CSF, Spanish Honors Society, Key Club, and Interact. Lily also has taken 5 COS classes, including three her senior year.
You can reach her by email at Lily.me2993@vusd.us
