1917 can best be described as a mediocre war film. Yes, Deakins worked his usual magic with cinematography...McKay did an adequate job...sadly, we know very little about his character, and the film does not allow him to grow...

Full Review | Apr 25, 2023

Sam Mendes’ technically dazzling and emotionally devastating World War I tale.../

Full Review | Dec 7, 2022

A technical marvel to behold that puts you right in the heart of war but ultimately leaves you emotionally cold to the resultant horror and heroics of the men involved.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Nov 11, 2022

With “1917” Sam Mendes takes his audience on a perilous journey driven by a simple but tightly-wound story soaked in an unending tension. It’s a harrowing tale of heroism, friendship, and sacrifice.

Full Review | Original Score: 4.5/5 | Aug 24, 2022

1917 is a stunning cinematic achievement.

Full Review | Original Score: 4.5/5 | Aug 23, 2022

MacKay is simultaneously appearing in the lead role of Justin Kurzel's True History of the Kelly Gang, the latest film about the local folk hero who refused to take orders from anyone.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Aug 18, 2022

For experiences like the one I had in the theatre watching this is why I love film. Constantly asking myself how they did this. Probably Sam Mendes' best movie to date. [Full review in Spanish]

Full Review | Original Score: 9/10 | Jun 23, 2022

Unfortunately I dont see what most see in 1917. Respectively, I hardly feel anything except some respect for the technical achievements. But that alone isnt enough - it actually slightly damages the film overall.

Full Review | Original Score: 6/10 | Apr 25, 2022

The film's formal indulgences distract from its dramatic potential.

Full Review | Original Score: 2/4 | Feb 22, 2022

What makes it so special is the balance between artistry and realism. Mendes reaches down into the mud and finds something beautiful.

Full Review | Original Score: 5/5 | Feb 21, 2022

1917 is a technical masterpiece that comes together with genuine powerful emotion to become a captivating work of art.

Full Review | Feb 12, 2022

We should be drawn into the personal story--director Sam Mendes loosely based the movie on his grandfather Alfred's wartime experiences--but instead, we're watching all the smoke and mirrors. It's sound and fury that could signify so much more.

Full Review | Nov 16, 2021

What could have been a gimmick in the service of a weaker narrative becomes a masterstroke here, basically denying us any let-off from the tension of what is happening on the screen.

Full Review | Sep 17, 2021

It is a must-see.

Full Review | Sep 15, 2021

The gimmicky side of [its single take] fades juxtaposed to the perspective it offers.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Jul 31, 2021

In addition to Deakins, production designer Dennis Gassner and composer Thomas Newman also add layers of bravura artistry to create an experience that will leave you breathless, heart pounding and absolutely emotionally wrecked by the end.

Full Review | Original Score: 5/5 | Jul 25, 2021

Mendes creates one of the best films released in 2019.

Full Review | Jul 23, 2021

Forget gushing quotes and star ratings. Probably the most effective way to advertise this movie is to strap heart rate monitors on viewers and put the results on the poster.

Full Review | Jul 14, 2021

The filmmakers have taken a simple premise and gone with a "less is more" tactic. This allows for more focus on a beautifully shot film, and highlights the actors who give their all emotionally and physically.

Full Review | Original Score: A- | Jun 23, 2021

1917 can safely be added to the list of movies that have expanded and enhanced our understanding of how truly brutal war can be.

Full Review | Feb 17, 2021