Review of Darkest Hour (2017) by Steven L — 25 Dec 2017

You can't compare this movie with the film "Dunkirk," which was released last summer. This one had character development, complex plot themes and inspiring performances.

The film takes place in May of 1940, just as defeat of the Brits at the hand of Hitler seemed certain. Churchill took the helm of the English ship of state, orchestrated the evacuation of British troops at Dunkirk, and inspired a nation against the tyranny of the Nazis.

Gary Oldman's Oscar-worthy portrayal of Churchill brought the great man to life in all aspects of his character: Statesman, patriot, orator, flawed mortal. Ben Mendelsohn was outstanding as the complex King George. Ronald Pickup did a yeoman's job as the despot-appeasing weasel Neville Chamberlain. Kristin Scott Thomas, as Churchill's sainted wife, and Lily James, as Miss Layton, his personal typist, put in noteworthy performances as well.

My favorite line in the movie came not from Winston Churchill, but from his nemesis, Lord Halifax. "He just mobilized the English language and sent it into battle." This quote was actually attributed to American journalist Edward R. Murrow, but it aptly summarized the genius of Churchill.

If you like movies about heroes, you're gonna love this one. My only regret is that I was limited to five stars.