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'Haunting' war movie leaves Netflix viewers in 'stunned silence'

The British war film, 1917, directed by Sam Mendes, was a huge success when it was released in 2019, and now it's making its way up the Netflix rankings as fans rave about it

(Image: Publicity Picture)

A spine-chilling war epic has climbed the charts since hitting Netflix, with fans quickly understanding the enormous acclaim it garnered at its original launch.

1917, masterfully helmed by Sam Mendes, recounts the harrowing tales of British soldiers in the First World War and draws partial inspiration from his grandfather's own wartime experiences. The gripping narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Operation Alberich and the German pullback to the Hindenburg Line, as it follows two soldiers on their desperate quest to prevent a doomed offensive.


Eager cinema enthusiasts have been posting their glowing critiques on Rotten Tomatoes, extolling the film’s virtues both when it premiered in 2019 and now as it secures a new audience on streaming platforms. One critic said: "1917 is one of those films that leaves you in complete stunned silence as you watch it."


Another added: "Mendes never allows his audience to rest; instead, he takes them on the journey with his two heroes using camera angles we haven't seen since The Children Of Men. Subculture Entertainment."

The industry accolades for the film extend well beyond audiences. At the 92nd Academy Awards, 1917 received an impressive 10 nominations and bagged three wins for its cinematography, sound mixing, and visual effects, reports the Mirror US.

George Mackay plays the lead role in 1917
George Mackay plays the lead role in 1917(Image: Publicity Picture)
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Not stopping there, the film also scooped up two Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture for Drama and Best Director.

One glowing review said: "MASTERPIECE! Not a single moment is wasted with incredible direction and vision from Sam Mendes and Rodger Deakins, paired with a godlike score from Thomas Newman, making this an unforgettable, emotional, and powerful journey that deserves multiple revisits beyond the first viewing."

With the acclaimed Sam Mendes at the helm, known for his direction of James Bond hits such as Skyfall and Spectre, it's little wonder the film has garnered widespread praise. Boasting performances by George Mackay in the lead role and supported by well-known actors such as Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth, and Andrew Scott, audiences have been left mesmerised by their 'emotional' portrayals.


One reviewer said: "We were glued to the screen; George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman were great castings for the leads. I also really enjoyed Andrew Scott's performance, though he doesn't get much screen time, his character has a nihilistic charm. Overall I'd give this film 5 stars. I find myself coming back to re-watch this film a few times a year; it really is a powerful film and was a pleasure to watch."

The film also stars Benedict Cumberbatch
The film also stars Benedict Cumberbatch(Image: Publicity Picture)

The film's unique and award-winning style is highlighted by its use of long takes, appearing to many as if the whole movie unfolds in just two continuous shots. One viewer said: "The well-paced, continuous shot captures the horrors of war in a very immersive way."


While another audience member was less impressed with the film's continuous shots, adding: "My expectation was high from the acclaimed director and period piece. I left the big screen disappointed. The long scenes became a distraction rather than adding to the storytelling. The whole movie felt like one long gimmick."

The cinematography of 1917, which captures the stunning landscapes of northern France, particularly the Western Front, has been hailed by many as making the film a "cinematic masterpiece."

One review said: "If I were to ever recommend a film to anyone, it would most certainly be this every time.

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"This film is gut wrenchingly sad, and equally horrifying, though the story is pulled together beautifully. It is a splendidly poetic, cinematic masterpiece, and words simply cannot describe how brilliant it is."

The Oscar-winning British war epic, 1917, can now be streamed on Netflix.

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