Geek of Oz

1917 has the best opening act of 2019. To be blunt, it’s cinematic a masterclass. Sadly despite the obvious craft on display, my mind wandered as the film progressed. After some wrestling with my thoughts, I’ve been able to confirm why this is; the film is touted as a “one shot film”, meaning that it is presented as if there are no cuts or editing and we follow the action in real time. Which isn’t in fact the case, because there are subtle cuts and edited moments. My issue isn’t so much the authenticity of the one shot claims, it’s that I find the technique distracting and instead of immersing me in the action, has almost the complete opposite effect. The film follows two young British soldiers in World War 1 given the unenviable task of crossing enemy territory, in order to hand deliver a message which will save the lives of hundreds of fellow soldiers. The film serves as a testament to the sacrifice and bravery displayed by thousands of soldiers who paid the ultimate price ...