Review of Testament of Youth (2015) by Foxgrove — 04 Jun 2015

In every sense of the word this is a beautiful adaptation of Vera Brittain’s memoir of the First World War. It delineates her struggle as a woman to go to University in Oxford and of her relationships with three men (her brother, fiancé and friend) all of whom become casualties of war’s inevitable consequence. Director James Kent composes each frame beautifully and many scenes look like pictures that have come to life, although in the best sense, as there are not endless shots of scenery just for the sake of it. Particularly effective are moments towards the end as the camera takes in all the places the four friends used to visit. Only now, of course, there is no one there. These poignant moments are very moving and speak volumes without the need for words.

In the lead role of Vera, Danish actress Alicia Vikander is outstanding. Her delicate performance is pitched at just the right level. Full of spirit and determination the actress never resorts to grandstanding or histrionics to make the character breathe. A great supporting cast of known actors flit in and out, but without unbalancing the deliberate and subtle tone.

Production Design and costumes are sublime as well as being appropriate and the score is just lovely, contributing greatly to the emotional impact the tragic story generates. The editing style successfully cuts to Vera’s thoughts and memories from time to time but never loses the rhythm of the basic narrative. For lovers of great stories wonderfully told this is a must see.