Review of Testament of Youth (2015) by Chris F — 22 Oct 2015

Testament of Youth is a remarkable drama film based on the First World War and on the perspective of Vera Brittain. I have not seen many British drama films or most BBC movies. I will say Testament of Youth is a beautifully filmed drama piece, which hits emotionally and is powerfully moving as we see things unravel and fold through Vera Brittain.

The plot takes place in 1914; Vera Brittain (Alicia Vikander) is an independent young woman, who wants to go to Oxford and to study on writing while her father is not supportive of her studies. Vera is accepted into Oxford, she befriends and falls in love with her brotherâ(TM)s friend Roland (Kit Harington). Her brother Edward (Taron Egerton) supports his sister in her studies and making a name for herself. Then, World War happens, Roland enlists into the military and her brother Edward as well. Vera struggles the distance and the danger Roland may be in when he is at war. Vera then drops out of Oxford, to become a war nurse as she witness some emotionally powerful results of the outcome of war.

The film does have a truly moving direction, great cinematography work as it shows some beautiful landscapes of England. It does have a emotionally strong love story, and can be frustrating to see these characters struggle through the most difficult time from the long distance, post traumatic stress, and from loss. The film did not over do with the romance, since it is about Vera and the perspective of her going through these events.

Alicia Vikander did give it her best on the performance, she is stunning, and the complexities of the struggles her character was going through was powerful. Kit Harington did good as well, as a noble man and who is willing to serve his country and support Veraâ(TM)s goals.

Testament of Youth is a moving drama film, the direction is refreshing, the story on a independent girl was beautiful, and Alicia Vikander is the highlight of the film and her amazing performance.