![]() These evolving landscapes only aide in creating a firm sense of location, especially amidst the chaos.Īll the while, Deakins’ jaw-dissolving cinematography opens up every new terrain with orbital camera movements that ration out just enough to tease the endless hurdles and enemies awaiting Chapman and MacKay. As our two protagonists shoulder their way deeper and further into this ever-expanding Dantesque warzone, the number of extras expands into the hundreds with more and more wounded and hardened fighters blanketing the chaotic edge of no man’s land. That sight is certainly magnified by the production values. Gamers might recognize this effect from the auto-pilot sequences laced within Medal of Honor or Call of Duty titles, but seeing it executed in reality is a sight to behold. Elsewhere, it stiffens and marches formally when in the presence of commanding officers. All too often, the lens is trained in on close-ups as enlisted men exchange barbs and complaints. There’s a rhythm and flow to the proceedings. As it weaves around, the camera ably informs the audience of the unfurling stakes on screen. It’s here the sheer technical challenges of 1917 present themselves.Ĭhallenge is an understatement. Right from the get-go, Mendes and Academy Award-winning director of photography Roger Deakins alternate between front and follow shots as our two protagonists pass scores of muddied soldiers, makeshift bunks, and smokey encampments on their way toward the front. Within seconds, the world opens as the two men plod toward their General ( Colin Firth) for proper instructions about a key mission. Based on the war stories told to director Sam Mendes by his grandfather, this forward-marching race against time is exponentially bolstered by the technical complexity of presenting the tale in one long-shot.ĭown to Gehenna or Up to the Throne, He Travels the Fastest Who Travels Alone: The film starts at ease in a wildflower field, lingering on Dean-Charles Chapman and fellow soldier George MacKay as they’re roused from sleep. ![]() They need to make a day’s long trek across no man’s land to warn 1,600 fellow soldiers about a pending German trap that will wipe out everyone by dawn. The Pitch: Two British foot soldiers are selected for a last-minute, solo mission.
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