1917

​I’ve been less prolific in my written posts lately, because by popular demand I’ve made the video reviews a bigger part of my blog. However, these will always remain prominent to some degree, as the written word is my gift, more so than public speaking.

1917 is a movie I was stoked to hear about. The marketing made it seem like an incredible epic, and then learning that it was directed by Sam Mendes (of my favorite movie American Beauty fame) and was ALL A SINGLE SHOT blew my mind.

I wasted little time watching it. It did not disappoint.

It’s riveting! The conflict is quickly established – two young British soldiers in WWI are given an important message to relay – and we follow the protagonists on their strenuous journey. The scenery is incredible, the main star’s performance is terrific and hopefully makes him a star, and the filmmaking gimmick really makes you feel like you’re there with them – ducking into trenches, running across vast open space, seeking shelter in empty buildings.  It’s got a standard runtime of roughly two hours but the time flies by, as you’d expect if you’re actually fighting in WWI instead of just sitting on your butt, LOL.

Until virtual reality finds its way to movie theaters, this is the closest you’ll get to feeling like you’re actually in a war. I wish I’d watched in in IMAX but even though I’m abroad right now I hope it’s still playing there when I return home in a week and a half.

If this movie wins Best Picture Sunday that will certainly extend its life on the big screen. I won’t be complaining if it wins – sorry Parasite.

Bottom line:  Stellar!

Up Next: A spiritual predecessor.