Darkest Hour (2017) Film Review

“Darkest Hour” showcases Churchill’s imperfectness to be his greatest triumph.

Directed By: Joe Wright

Rated: PG-13

Runtime: 2:05

Review By: Livi Edmonson

Golden Globe winner and Academy award nominee, Gary Oldman, channels the great Winston Churchill, in director Joe Wright’s latest film, “Darkest Hour”. The film gives us a more intimate look into the life of Great Britain’s legendary Prime Minister, who claimed his success in his most careless, uneasy moments. We see Churchill’s story unfold from just moments before he was named Prime Minister, all the way up until he rallied his nation to fight for peace against the relentless Germany, proving that he was and will always be, one of the most treasured orators of all time.

For those who appreciate historical flicks about great historical leaders--- this film is right up your alley. There has been a handful of films in 2017 that had to do with both Churchill and the monumental battle of Dunkirk. Though it is probably just a simple coincidence that these films were released around the same time period, Churchill’s presence in cinema is more powerful than ever, reminding everyone of a time when the world actually had a leader fighting for peace.

Just a couple of Sundays ago, Gary Oldman’s performance won him a Golden Globe for “Best Actor” and just last week, he took home the Critics’ Choice award as well. With the SAG awards this weekend and the Oscars right around the corner, it is safe to say that this is Oldman’s year to shine. Although he is in the company of many other fantastic acting nominees, his winning streak can’t be broken.

There are many other fantastic performances from the supporting actors and actresses in the cast, including that of Kristin Scott Thomas, Lily James, Ben Mendelsohn, and Stephen Dillane. This acting ensemble, led by a very convincing Gary Oldman, is undeniably terrific. However, if it were not for these emotion-driven performances, especially that of the completely transformed Oldman, this film would be an absolute snooze-fest.

 Yes, the story is there and the truth behind it is extremely empowering, but “Darkest Hour” is one of those films that is driven by its stars and their ability to act. Basically, you can’t make a film about Churchill unless you have an outstanding actor to portray Churchill and it is safe to say that Gary Oldman exceeds all expectations.