Oscar-winning war film hailed as 'masterpiece' as good as Saving Private Ryan. Christopher Nolan's film was a box office hit grossing over $530 million worldwide and boasts an impressive 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It was the highest-grossing World War II film at the time.
Record-Breaking Achievement
For many years, the film held the record as the highest-grossing Second World War film of all time — that was until the arrival of 2023's Oppenheimer. Film fans continue to heap praise on this so-called 'masterpiece', approaching a decade since its release, and a glance at online reviews suggests audiences are overwhelmingly united in their admiration.
Critical Acclaim
The 2017 historical war film Dunkirk was met with widespread critical acclaim, becoming a considerable box office triumph, and it boasts an impressive rating of 92% on the review site Rotten Tomatoes. As viewers share their opinions, it is evident that the film left a far deeper impression, placing it among the finest productions ever made.
One review says: "This is art masterpiece in every possible way. Sad events during war has men being desperate to get out alive. Actors, story, cinematography is off the charts."
You can ask for better in a war movie except for All Quiet on the Western Front, any of the few versions and Saving Private Ryan. A must see if you enjoy top tier cinema.
Storytelling and Production
The film, helmed by acclaimed Hollywood director Christopher Nolan, portrays the true events of the Dunkirk evacuation during the Second World War through three distinct perspectives. These central viewpoints chronicle the experiences of those on land, at sea, and in the air.
Setting itself apart within the genre, this was a genuinely monumental production, celebrated for its extensive use of practical effects and thousands of extras to craft the most authentic setting possible. Filming also demanded a host of historic vessels and aircraft from the era to ensure everything was brought to the screen with painstaking accuracy.
Stellar Cast and Direction
What truly elevates the film is its stellar ensemble cast, featuring the likes of Cillian Murphy, Barry Keoghan, Tom Hardy, and perhaps most unexpectedly, pop superstar Harry Styles, making his feature film debut. Though in truth, it is Nolan's masterful direction that propels the film to extraordinary heights and remains the most talked-about element amongst cinema enthusiasts.
One reviewer noted: "Another Christopher Nolan masterpiece that I loved seeing twice in theatres and is my favourite summertime plus war movie. I really loved how it was told by the perspectives of land, sea and air."
Another wrote: "Christopher Nolan has done it again. Excellent storytelling from 3 different perspectives. Inspiring story of courage and living to fight another day."
Box Office and Awards
Upon its release in 2017, the Second World War epic made an undeniable impact on the industry, amassing a staggering $530 million worldwide (around £395 million), and earned a string of prestigious nominations. At the Academy Awards it took home the awards for Best Film Editing, Best Sound Editing and Best Sound Mixing, despite misses in the Best Picture and Best Director categories. It's Dunkirk's cinematography itself that resonated with audiences, alongside the narrative, naturally, but the powerful imagery continues to affect viewers, according to their critiques.
One admirer noted: "The best movie I've sever seen. The cinematography was stunning and beautiful, juxtaposing the tragic and heart-wrenching scenes and experiences these men at war were facing."
Where to Watch
Film fans can now be blown away as Dunkirk is streaming on Amazon Prime and Now, as well as being available to rent on Apple TV.
