The film 1917, directed by Sam Mendes, will air on BBC Two tonight at 10:30pm, rekindling interest in this war epic as the 2023 awards season approaches. Originally released in December 2019, this British war movie captivated audiences and earned three Academy Awards, solidifying its place as a modern classic.
Set during World War I, 1917 follows the harrowing mission of two young British soldiers, Will (played by George MacKay) and Tom (Dean-Charles Chapman). They are tasked with delivering a message to halt an impending attack, potentially saving 1,600 fellow soldiers, including Blake’s brother. The story is inspired by real-life tales told to Mendes by his grandfather, who served during the war.
The film has been widely acclaimed for its unique storytelling style, shot to appear as one continuous take, creating intense immersion. Mendes has noted, "You can have seven minutes of magic and then... you’ve got to start again and none of it is usable." This challenge brought the cast and crew together, pushing them creatively.
Co-writer Krysty Wilson-Cairns explained the creative hurdles they faced: "With this, you had to completely retrain your brain and somehow tell a story in which everything unravels like a ribbon..." The complex narrative structure required innovative writing and directing techniques, making this war drama not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging.
Star-studded, the film features performances from Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Andrew Scott among others. Interestingly, during filming, Mendes humorously pointed out, "I’d say Andrew in his only scene made more mistakes than the rest of the cast put together!" Scott's involvement showcased the challenges of the long takes demanded by the film’s production style, which often required actors to remain flawlessly on track.
After its release, 1917 was nominated for 10 Academy Awards at the 2020 Oscars, winning Best Cinematography for the legendary Roger Deakins, as well as Best Sound Mixing and Best Visual Effects. Critics praised the film's hard-hitting depiction of trench warfare, alongside its groundbreaking cinematography.
For viewers wishing to catch 1917, the film will also be available for streaming on BBC iPlayer shortly after its broadcast. Alternatively, for those who can’t wait, Netflix subscribers can stream it immediately, or they can purchase or rent it on platforms like Prime Video and iTunes.
Tonight’s broadcast serves not just as entertainment but as a reminder of the sacrifices made during World War I and the stories those who served have to tell. Whether tuning in for the first time or revisiting this modern classic, audiences will find 1917 is worth their time, reinforcing its legacy within the pantheon of war films.