1917 (2019)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

1917 is a 2019 British war film directed by Sam Mendes and written by Mendes and Krysty Wilson-Cairns. The film is set during World War I and follows two young British soldiers on a mission to deliver a critical message that could save 1,600 men from walking into a deadly trap. The film is notable for its “one-shot” style, creating the illusion of a continuous single take throughout the narrative.

The Story Unfolds

The Mission

The film begins on April 6, 1917, with Lance Corporals Tom Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) and Will Schofield (George MacKay) resting in a field in northern France. They are summoned by General Erinmore (Colin Firth) and tasked with delivering an urgent message to Colonel Mackenzie (Benedict Cumberbatch) of the 2nd Battalion, who is preparing to launch an attack against retreating German forces. The Germans have set a trap, and the attack must be called off to save the lives of 1,600 soldiers, including Blake’s brother, Lieutenant Joseph Blake (Richard Madden).

The Journey

The No Man’s Land

Blake and Schofield traverse the perilous No Man’s Land between the British and German trenches. They navigate through a maze of barbed wire, corpses, and craters, eventually reaching the abandoned German trenches. Inside, they encounter booby traps and rats, leading to an explosion that nearly buries Schofield alive.

The French Farmhouse

The soldiers emerge from the trenches and arrive at an abandoned farmhouse. They witness an aerial dogfight that ends with a German plane crashing into the barn. Blake and Schofield rescue the German pilot, but he fatally stabs Blake. Schofield promises the dying Blake to complete the mission and deliver the message to his brother.

The Climax and Resolution

The Town of Écoust

Schofield continues alone, encountering a destroyed bridge where he narrowly escapes enemy fire. He reaches the bombed-out town of Écoust, where he encounters a frightened French woman (Claire Duburcq) hiding with an infant. She helps Schofield, and he gives her his canned food and milk before moving on.

The Final Push

Schofield faces numerous obstacles, including crossing a raging river and avoiding German soldiers. He finally reaches the British encampment and finds the 2nd Battalion preparing for the attack. Desperate to deliver the message in time, he sprints across the battlefield, narrowly avoiding explosions and gunfire.

The Conclusion

Delivering the Message

Schofield reaches Colonel Mackenzie and convinces him to call off the attack just in time. The battalion is saved, and Schofield completes his mission, though he is emotionally and physically exhausted. He meets Lieutenant Joseph Blake and delivers the tragic news of his brother’s death, handing over his brother’s personal effects.

Reflection

The film ends with Schofield resting against a tree, mirroring the opening scene, reflecting on the journey and the sacrifices made during the war.

Movie Ending

1917 concludes with Schofield completing his mission against all odds, saving hundreds of lives and delivering the message. The film underscores the themes of duty, sacrifice, and the brutal reality of war.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in 1917.

Type of Movie

1917 is a war drama that combines elements of action, suspense, and historical fiction.

Cast

• George MacKay as Lance Corporal Will Schofield
• Dean-Charles Chapman as Lance Corporal Tom Blake
• Colin Firth as General Erinmore
• Benedict Cumberbatch as Colonel Mackenzie
• Richard Madden as Lieutenant Joseph Blake
• Andrew Scott as Lieutenant Leslie
• Mark Strong as Captain Smith

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Thomas Newman, whose music enhances the tension, emotion, and atmosphere of the narrative.

Filming Locations

1917 was filmed in various locations in England and Scotland, including:

• Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire: For the trench and battlefield scenes.
• Teesdale, County Durham: For the scenes involving the river.
• Shepperton Studios, Surrey: For interior sets and specific scenes.

Awards and Nominations

1917 received numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Academy Awards: Won Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, and Best Sound Mixing. Nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Production Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Best Sound Editing, and Best Original Score.
• Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Motion Picture – Drama and Best Director.
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Sound, and Best Special Visual Effects.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• The film’s “one-shot” style required meticulous planning, rehearsals, and coordination between the cast and crew. The longest continuous shot was about nine minutes.
• The production used a 5,200-foot trench set, built on Salisbury Plain, to accommodate the film’s continuous shot style.
• George MacKay performed many of his own stunts, including running through the battlefield amid explosions.

Inspirations and References

1917 was inspired by stories told to Sam Mendes by his grandfather, Alfred Mendes, who served as a messenger during World War I. The film blends historical events with fictional elements to create a gripping and immersive narrative.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut closely follows Mendes’ vision. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.

Book Adaptations and Differences

While 1917 is an original screenplay inspired by real-life accounts, it captures the essence of World War I through its detailed and realistic portrayal of the era.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Blake and Schofield crossing No Man’s Land.
• The explosion in the German trench.
• The aerial dogfight and Blake’s death.
• Schofield’s sprint across the battlefield to deliver the message.

Iconic Quotes

• “There is only one way this war ends. Last man standing.” – General Erinmore
• “Hope is a dangerous thing.” – Lieutenant Leslie
• “I hoped today might be a good day. Hope is a dangerous thing.” – Captain Smith

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film’s use of natural light and practical effects enhances the realism and immersive experience.
• The continuous shot style creates an intimate and immediate connection with the characters and their journey.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was approximately $90–100 million, and it grossed over $384 million worldwide.
• The “one-shot” illusion was achieved through careful editing and seamless transitions between takes.
• The film’s production design included constructing over a mile of trenches to replicate the World War I battlefield.

Why Watch?

1917 is a masterfully crafted film that offers a unique and immersive cinematic experience. Its compelling narrative, technical brilliance, and emotional depth make it a must-watch for fans of war dramas and historical fiction.

Director’s Other Movies

Sam Mendes also directed:

• American Beauty (1999)
• Road to Perdition (2002)
• Jarhead (2005)
• Revolutionary Road (2008)
• Skyfall (2012)
• Spectre (2015)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Saving Private Ryan (1998)
• Dunkirk (2017)
• Paths of Glory (1957)
• War Horse (2011)
• The Thin Red Line (1998)