'Gut wrenching' and 'beautiful' war film on BBC tonight

A war film branded as "haunting" and "gut wrenching" by viewers will broadcast on BBC tonight.

Directed by Sam Mendes and launched in 2019, the picture garnered tremendous acclaim and recognition whilst serving as a career-defining moment for lead actor George MacKay.

Although MacKay had previously performed as a youngster, this production represented his debut starring role in a major studio release.

MacKay was joined by Richard Madden, Andrew Scott, Mark Strong and Benedict Cumberbatch in the distinguished ensemble cast of 1917, which centres on World War I.

Now screening on television through BBC2, the film which secured nominations and accolades for its narrative and craftsmanship, presents a fictional tale rooted in the historical truths of the conflict, depicting the savagery, solitude, and compassion of troops on the battle lines during a crucial period in 1917, reports the Mirror.

According to IMDB, the official synopsis says: "April 6th, 1917. As an infantry battalion assembles to wage war deep in enemy territory, two soldiers are assigned to race against time and deliver a message that will stop 1,600 men from walking straight into a deadly trap."

The award-winning film is renowned for its stunning visuals, with many admirers dubbing it "cinema magic." Fans have been flooding Rotten Tomatoes with five-star reviews, praising the film's unique and captivating portrayal of war. One viewer said: "My favourite film. Had to rate it and review. A nonstop edge of your seat tour of war from a unique point of view perspective. Gut wrenching and beautiful. This is cinema!"

Another fan shared their thoughts, saying: "Well worth a look if you like war and/or WWI era stuff. The jaded lieutenant at the front scene is cinema magic. "1917 It is a war drama about two friends who have to go on a risky mission to deliver a message before the war begins....This film is brilliant in every sense, script, direction and acting," said a third. Another added: "A hauntingly beautiful gift of a movie."

One Letterboxd user wrote: "Visually stunning, technically impressive, great acting. Does not stray from showing the true horrors of war, which stands out to me as one of its best features. Loved it."

Director Sam Mendes drew inspiration from tales told by his grandfather, Alfred Mendes, a veteran of the war. The film received ten nominations at the 92nd Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Mendes. It also bagged three awards, including Best Cinematography (Deakins), Best Sound Mixing (Taylor and Wilson), and Best Visual Effects.