At
a time when hope and courage were needed the most, Darkest Hour shows the behind the scenes angst of Dunkirk which immortalized
Winston Churchill, personified by Gary Oldman in a grand performance.
In
the dark days of May, 1940, Germany has invaded neighboring countries including
France while England represents one of the last European countries standing and
in retreat from Hitler’s heavily fortified German forces. An ineffective
Neville Chamberlain is replaced as Prime Minister by Parliament with Winston
Churchill (Oldman) who faces a formidable task: with the bulk of British troops trapped at Dunkirk leaving England
virtually defenseless against invasion and no military way to rescue them, Churchill
feels political pressure to initiate peace talks with a tyrant. Inspired to make a stand, he puts out a call
for civilian boats to form a lifeline at Dunkirk, resolute in this defining moment
of history.
The
film depicts the fascinating political maneuvering and the enormous
responsibility of leadership during war.
Churchill is portrayed as an intelligent man of conviction who speaks his
mind and is not afraid to make hard decisions. Crude and impatient, yet
compassionate, he is not immune from self-doubt while supported by his wife
(Kristin Scott Thomas is quite good.)
Oldman’s acting is
so convincing (enhanced by remarkable makeup) effectively conveying the weight
of the country on his shoulders (not unlike Daniel Day-Lewis’ portrayal of Lincoln).
Director Joe Wright has had a fascination with Dunkirk featured in his Atonement, and this film makes a perfect
companion piece to Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk.
But
this is Oldman’s show, and he delivers in a memorable role that should finally
secure him an Oscar.
***1/2
of ****stars (add ½* for Oldman fans)
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