‘History is usually written by the victors’ is an often used
phrase. World War 2 saw many winners and losers with history re-written
to suit narratives. Among the many scribbled words have been those about
British wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill. At times an untouchable
hero to villainous albatross, opinions about him have been polarising.
‘Churchill’ provides a different slant on a crucial historical figure.
Portrayed neither as monster or saint, ‘Churchill’ successfully dives under the
skin of an enigmatic man still affecting opinions.
In June 1944, World War 2 stands at a crossroads. With
allied forces assembled on Britain’s south coast ready to regain control of
Nazi occupied Europe, they await orders from Prime Minister Churchill (Brian
Cox). Haunted by memories of failed decisions causing mass casualties in
the First World War, Churchill’s indecision to commence the D-Day landings
causes conflict. The only person Churchill confides in is his wife
Clementine (Miranda Richardson). Her advice proves crucial in creating
the legacy Churchill needs to fulfill his destiny as one of history’s true
leaders.
‘Churchill’ is an engaging portrait of a complex
person. A dogmatic, bombastic bully and then a shining beacon of reason,
the multi-facets of his persona are effectively realised. The decisions
he had to make would have been ones no ‘normal’ person would want. Standing
up to his more gung-go colleagues and his efforts at political diplomacy bring a
startling insight to an important moment in history. Brian Cox delivers an
acceptable performance as Churchill even if it feels more caricatured than
truly authentic.
Whilst the performances are uniformly fine, with Miranda
Richardson excellent as Churchill’s wife, there doesn’t seem much to the
overall story. Scenes feel unnecessarily padded out with the screenplay
repeating itself several times. Perhaps had the film explored Churchill’s
entire reign during World War 2 there may have been more narrative bite.
There doesn’t seem enough to fill the run-time although what’s in it is
fascinating. The cinematography ably papers over any extended sequences
with some very striking visuals.
‘Churchill’ may change opinions about the fabled war-time
leader. Whatever the feelings about him, it can’t be denied how heavy the
weight of the nation must have been. That he saw it through is a measure
of his personal strength with people now able to watch his actions in the free
society he fought hard to retain.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 6
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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