Gary Oldman plays one of Britain’s most well-known political figures in this ‘sensational’ war film.
Set in 1940, Darkest Hour follows Winston Churchill amidst the cabinet crisis during his time as Prime Minister in the Second World War. At the time, both Winston and his fellow cabinet members were split over whether to discuss peace terms or continue fighting Germany.
The 2017 film’s title refers to the beginnings of war and a phrase that has been widely attributed to Churchill’s time as PM . In an interesting take, Darkest Hour retells a historical moment that presents the Brits decision to fight Hitler as a difficult choice and not just an inevitable event that took place.
While the film itself is fictitious, it captures one of the most influential British cabinets of all time and has been commended for its historical accuracy. Many have since praised Oldman’s performance as the ex-prime minister, with some even claiming the actor is “phenomenal” in the role.
A Rotten Tomatoes review states: “Gary Oldman was indeed phenomenal on this one. And even without Gary’s performance, this would still be a worthy watch.”
Another viewer added: “Greatest movie of Churchill ever, and Gary Oldman was sensational.” While others seemed defensive over the depiction of the prime minister.
One viewer said: “Not Churchill, not by a long shot. I don’t care how much they laud the actor; I’m sure he is very good, but we have seen, heard and read of Churchill, and that is not him.”
Despite viewers’ divided opinions, Oldman’s role landed him several accolades, including Best Actor at the Oscars, the BAFTAs, and the Academy Awards. Critics even consider it to be one of the ‘best performances of his career’.
As the Nazis continue to cause disruption across Western Europe, and the threat of invasion rises, the film captures Churchill’s world-changing decisions. As the King is sceptical, the public are unprepared and his own party are plotting against him, Churchill has to rally a nation and change the course of history as we know it.
“The acting is phenomenal along with the attention to detail in sets,” a viewer wrote. “Indeed, there’s almost universal acclaim for Oldman’s depiction of Churchill.
“The director is to be complimented for telling an important story but at the same time keeping it fast-paced and interesting. This is one of the great movies of the 21st century.”
Starring alongside Oldman is Kristin Scott Thomas as Churchill’s wife, Clementine Churchill, as well as Mamma Mia’s Lily James as the prime minister’s secretary, Elizabeth Layton. Also playing a major role in the movie is Ben Mendelsohn as the late King George VI.
Watch the stellar cast star in the 2017 war drama available on BBC iPlayer now.