Fans have hailed the war film Dunkirk as a 'masterpiece' and the 'best movie ever', with some saying it rivals Saving Private Ryan. Christopher Nolan's film continues to earn rave reviews from war film fans nearly a decade on from its release, with some viewers calling it a 'masterpiece' and the best movie they've ever seen.
A Box Office Triumph
It was the highest-grossing World War II film at the time. 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 the online reviews suggests there's a unanimous verdict.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Praise
The 2017 historical war film Dunkirk was met with widespread critical acclaim, becoming a box office triumph, and it boasts an impressive rating of 92% on the review site Rotten Tomatoes. As audiences share their opinions, it's evident that this film left a far deeper impression, placing it amongst the greatest productions of all time.
One review states: "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."
Nolan's Vision and Production
The film, directed by Hollywood visionary Christopher Nolan, portrays the real-life events of the Dunkirk evacuation during the Second World War, through three distinct perspectives. These key viewpoints tell the story of those on land, at sea, and in the air. Standing apart within the genre, it was a truly monumental production, renowned for its extensive use of practical effects and thousands of extras to craft the most authentic setting possible. Furthermore, the shoot demanded a host of period-accurate boats and aircraft to ensure everything was brought to life on screen with genuine precision.
Stellar Cast
What elevates the film to such remarkable heights is its stellar ensemble cast, comprising 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's Nolan's masterful direction that propels the film to greatness and remains the most talked-about element amongst film fans.
One review says: "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 person wrote: "Christopher Nolan has done it again. Excellent storytelling from 3 different perspectives. Inspiring story of courage and living to fight another day."
Awards and Legacy
Upon its release in 2017, it's fair to say the Second World War film sent shockwaves through the industry, pulling in a staggering $530 million worldwide (around £395 million), before going on to receive 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 is Dunkirk's filmmaking that has resonated deeply with audiences, alongside its storytelling, with the haunting visuals continuing to leave a lasting impression on viewers, according to their reviews. One admirer wrote: "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."
Viewers can prepare to be blown away as Dunkirk is streaming now on Amazon Prime and Now, as well as being available to rent on Apple TV.
