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A WWII drama with a buzzy cast might seem like typical generic awards fodder, but in the hands of a brilliant filmmaker like Steve McQueen, it can be so much more. McQueen’sBlitzis a technically masterful and narratively impressive film that uses the formula of its genre to create one of the most harrowingly beautiful movies of the year.
BlitzReview
Blitzfollows a mother and son who must fight their way back to each other in WWII London during a terrifying period of air raids in the city. Although there have been plenty of films about trying to stay alive during the war, we less often see one set on the homefront, and in many ways, seeing the horrors of war against a backdrop that is supposed to be comfortable like home makes what we see all the more horrifying.
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In the simplest terms,Blitzis two hours of pure stress. Although there is undoubtedly a sentimentality to much of the movie, McQueen’s script goes in directions that will almost certainly catch viewers off guard. One scene in the first act is one of the most unexpected and shocking things you’ll see this year, and it does an excellent job of setting a bar for the tone and emotional stakes of the film.
At times, it can feel as ifBlitzis disjointed, with frequent flashbacks to moments in the past, whether glimpses of moments in the characters’ lives or even glimpses into the livelier moments of London’s history. While these scenes can initially feel obstructive to the pacing, they serve two important purposes. For one, they provide a reprieve from the incredibly stressful parts surrounding them. Then, they also create an effective juxtaposition, furthering the movie’s thesis. By the end of the film, it becomes clear how deliberate McQueen has been in constructing this story the way he did.
That said, what really makesBlitzso effective is its character work. In many ways, it’s a relatively straightforward war movie, but it is set above and beyond by being firmly rooted in the emotional storyline of a mother and her son. By rooting the story in this more universal journey, McQueen allows it to transcend the conventions of its genre.
With this being a Steve McQueen film, there are also layers beneath the surface exploring sociopolitical themes. Throughout the movie, the protagonist must come to terms with his identity as a mixed-race child growing up in the not particularly tolerant era of WWII London. While this is largely a subplot, it does contribute to one of the film’s most stirring moments.
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McQueen’s command of the technical elements in his movie is also masterful. The biggest highlight ofBlitzis its sound design, which completely envelops the viewer in the streets of London. From the planes and bombs above head to the panicking souls on the streets, viewers will hear — and feel — everything. The cinematography, production design, and editing are also all strong, creating images that are not only immersive but also genuinely powerful.
Of course, all eyes are onSaoirse Ronanfor her performance inBlitz, and rightfully so — she’s incredible. Her work here is among the most gripping, emotionally rich, and mature she has ever done. Yet, despite her excellent performance, she doesn’t give the best turn in the film. That’s just how stacked of an ensembleBlitzhas.
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Young actor Elliott Heffernan gives what is likely the best child performance in any movie this year. He has such a natural charm that lends him a gripping screen presence — which is essential, considering how much of the film he carries — as well as excellent chemistry with each and every one of his co-stars. The extended cast also has a few memorable supporting actors, including a truly touching turn from Benjamin Clémentine and a disgustingly (but perfectly) villainous bout from Stephen Graham. Only Harris Dickinson feels completely underused.
IsBlitzworth watching?
Steve McQueen has proven time and time again that he can take stories and genres that are often conventional and tell them in such a way that his work feels incredibly refreshing.Blitzis an emotional, stressful, and just downright effective WWII movie that feels like something only McQueen could have delivered.
Blitzscreened at the 2024 Austin Film Festival, which ran October 24-31. It is now in theaters and streams on Apple TV+ beginning November 22.
Blitz Austin Film Festival Review — Steve McQueen Makes a Stunning, Stressful, Moving War Drama
Sean Boelman
Managing Editor for Film and TV
Articles Published :441
Sean is the Managing Editor for Film and Television, working to determine editorial strategy for the critics team. He has been on the FandomWire team since 2022.In addition to writing reviews himself, Sean helps match writers on the FandomWire team with assignments that best fit their interests and expertise.
