A man of many words
PM WINSTON CHURCHILL SAVES BRITAIN A captivating story behind the series of events which led to his World War II victory over Germany.
Paying homage to one of the greatest men to walk the corridors of the House of Commons in England during the reign of King George VI, author and statesman Winston Churchill never minced his words, especially when defending his beloved country and state.
Set in Britain during a time when Nazi Germany threatened most of the European states, the Darkest Hour depicts a series of events which saw the reinstating of Churchill as prime minister.
Both stern and pompous, the character of Churchill is played by 2017 Golden Globe winner and Academy Award nominee Gary Oldman, who undoubtedly performed the role to the best of his ability.
From the first scene, where we get to meet the obnoxious know-it-all, to the very last scene after his heartbreaking victory speech, Oldman and director Joe Wright make it a point to portray a well-rounded man who is feared and respected by all, including the king himself.
He is a devoted father and husband who only seeks to see his beloved country triumph over a tyrant.
Sworn in to save the day, Churchill finds himself recalled into the position of prime minister. He has to formulate a strategy which could ensure the victory of Britain.
Using his wit and intellectual charm, he steps up to the plate. With his trusted scribe Elizabeth Layton, played by English actress Lily James, he marches into parliament with one goal: save Britain at all cost.
Having debuted at $79 million (R948 million) at the box office, the Darkest Hour is a journey back into history, filled with the classical British dry sense of humour as well as interesting facts about the man.
If anything, I would strongly advise that you take a pen and paper along as some, if not most, of the dialogue is filled with knowledgeable quotes and references which are applicable to the current state of South African politics.
What I found exceptionally captivating was how, through all the commotion, we got to see and understand the human side of Churchill.