Dunkirk offers the most intense beach-set cinematic experience since the iconic film Jaws. In this new adaptation of such a strong battle, Christopher Nolan’s talent as director and writer shines through, creating a visual masterpiece that will leave you mesmerized.
The battle of Dunkirk was a short one, beginning on May 26 and ending on June 4, 1940. Unfortunately, despite its minimal time, it was still deadly. Allied soldiers fighting in WWII were in hiding, surrounded on all sides by the German Army forces and had to be evacuated on the beaches of Dunkirk, by way of an operation famously known as Operation Dynamo. On the ground, British Army privates Tommy (played by Fionn Whitehead) and Alex (played by Harry Styles) are one of the men desperately fighting and struggling to remain alive and safely evacuate the beach, by whatever means available. Across the ocean, local sailors Mr. Dawson (played by Mark Rylance) and his son Peter (played by Toms Carney) had been recruited by the Navy to help with the evacuation. And from yet another perspective, members of the Royal Air Force like Farrier (played by Tom Hardy) are attempting to shoot down the German bombers, in order to successfully help the stranded troops evacuate the beach and ocean safely.
Now that you've got an idea about what the movie is about, let's get down to the production of the film itself. The cinematography, as expected from talented director and writer Christopher Nolan, is groundbreaking. All congratulations to Hoyte van Hoyterman for creating a visionary masterpiece. Everything looks incredibly realistic and breathtaking, keeping you on your toes the entire duration of the film. One scene in particular, that just so happened to be the most memorable to me, was when one of the Air Force pilots was soaring through the sunset sky as the troops cheered in victory. I can assure you that it will give you goosebumps and make you teary-eyed.
The sound effects and the music composed by Hans Zimmer made the movie that much more tangible. The bombs going off start off the film, preparing you for the emotional rollercoaster, and they’re so loud that it sounds like they're coming from the back of the theater. If you listen closely, there's a ticking clock throughout the entire film (minus the ending, which I will keep under wraps for you to find out) hidden within each song, creating even more tension and suspense. By the end of the movie I was already down to the nub of my fingertips, so prepare to be antsy!
The acting on Harry Styles' part was quite impressive as he is a well-known singer, not actor. It was refreshing to see him excel in the film, as he was the one with the most lines (despite the film’s lack of dialogue) and delivered them eloquently, as if he really were an experienced actor. Cillian Murphy and Tom Hardy also delivered a remarkable performance with no surprise. Dunkirk relied heavily on emotions since it barely has any conversation so it was important to have the story be delivered effortlessly within the visual effects and acting, which I can confirm they achieved flawlessly.
Dunkirk is now playing in U.S. theaters nationwide. It’s 107 minutes long and is Rated PG-13 for intense war experience and some language. Ultimately, because of the fantastic experience I had taking in all of the stunning cinematography and storyline, I rate Dunkirk five out of five stars and recommend it for ages 13 and older.
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