1917: A

The Russian Ark of war films.  The product of the collaboration between Mendes and Deakins is a visually stunning and technically ambitious film that is edited together to look like a single continuous shot.  For those looking for more than just a technical achievement will be pleasantly surprised by the emotional pathos of the narrative.  The story (inspired by Mendes’ grandfather’s recollection of the war) follows two young soldiers as they traverse enemy territory to relay a message that could save a platoon from a trap set by the Germans.  This film is definitely worthy of its Golden Globe awards.

Blake Johnson, Guest Contributor