Netflix viewers have hailed the 2019 British war film 1917 as a 'masterpiece' and say it is as good as Saving Private Ryan. The film, which won several Academy Awards, is currently available to stream on Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Viewers praise the film's authenticity
Audiences find themselves repeatedly drawn to the war film, now regarded as a modern classic, as they confess to 'rewatching' the 'masterpiece'. The film premiered in 2019 and has since developed a devoted following amongst genre enthusiasts who've declared it worthy of standing alongside the all-time greats.
What appears to captivate viewers most about this production is its authentic portrayal of warfare, which stems from genuine accounts shared by the director's family member. Sam Mendes's grandfather, Alfred, recounted numerous tales about his time serving as a British soldier during World War One, and these narratives helped to inform what the film ultimately became.
Oscar-winning cinematography and sound
Set during that specific year, 1917 follows the German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line during Operation Alberich. The narrative follows two British soldiers embarking on a vital mission to deliver an essential message to halt an offensive attack before it's too late.
Many viewers have commended the film for its special effects, sound design and more, to such an extent that it secured 10 Oscar nominations upon release. Ultimately, it claimed the awards for Best Cinematography, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Visual Effects - accolades which fans deeply appreciate.
One review reads: "Technically perfect and with surprisingly well-done dramatic development. So fluid the way the drama layers are portrayed here. 1917 is peak cinema."
All-star cast and immersive technique
While the film's cinematic quality has garnered considerable admiration, its ensemble cast has equally earned well-deserved recognition for bringing this deeply moving story to the screen. The cast comprises George MacKay, Andrew Scott, Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch and Richard Madden.
Highlighting this, one reviewer wrote: "Beautiful and haunting cinematography. The film appears to be taken in one shot, as if you're with the main character throughout the film. Incredible performances from the main characters William Schofield - played by George MacKay and Tom Blake - played by Dean-Charles Chapman. Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch made very timely appearances."
A crucial aspect of the film that sets it apart, with audiences claiming to be gripped from "start to finish", is its deliberate construction to resemble two unbroken continuous shots. This technique lends the entire film an extraordinarily "immersive" quality, and it is the seamless partnership between the editor and cinematographer that contributed to its remarkable Oscar victories.
On the review platform Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts an impressive rating of 88%, and it's evident that audiences continue to revisit it years after its release. If you're drawn to wartime narratives, this is an ideal starting point when you're next browsing streaming services, though it carries a caution, as viewers are left "haunted".
