World War II Drama Blitz Is Steve McQueen’s Most Tender Film Yet

As a movie enthusiast with a profound appreciation for historical dramas and a personal connection to World War II narratives, I found Steve McQueen’s “Blitz” to be a moving, thought-provoking film that beautifully captures the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity. The story of young George, a Black boy navigating life during the London Blitz, is not only an exceptional tale of survival but also a poignant exploration of identity and belonging in a society steeped in colonialism.

Americans have various methods for understanding the Blitz, and one popular approach is through films. A notable example is John Boorman’s 1987 movie Hope and Glory, which offers a vivid portrayal of Boorman’s personal experiences during London’s eight-month ordeal from 1940 to 1941, when the city was repeatedly bombarded by the Luftwaffe. Steve McQueen’s Blitz, another film, could be considered a complementary piece to Boorman’s work. It tells the story of a young Black boy, George (portrayed by Elliott Heffernan), who is the 9-year-old son of a single white mother, Saoirse Ronan’s Rita. Like Boorman’s hero, George navigates danger in a city under attack. However, McQueen’s film highlights the unique challenges faced by a Black child during wartime London, even as it emphasizes that not even being white could guarantee safety. Blitz explores how resilience can grow from vulnerability, underscoring that no child asks to be a victim of war; sometimes, simply surviving with your spirit intact is the best possible outcome.

George feels upset when his mother takes him to the train station; instead of saying goodbye, he sprints away and travels alone on the train, avoiding her. However, as the train departs from the city, George finds it unbearable to be apart from his mother and grandfather, Gerald (Paul Weller). In a moment of impulse, he jumps off the train and catches a ride back towards the city. Initially, this choice brings excitement, but as George nears home, he encounters both helpful individuals and those who aim to do him harm. In many aspects, George stands out in his own town, representing a child whose ethnicity remains significant in a nation deeply rooted in colonialism.

As a devoted cinephile, I find Blitz to be one of McQueen’s most heartfelt films, yet it never veers into sentimentality. In this gritty tale, George, a tough guy accustomed to self-reliance, is revealed as someone who finds solace in the company of his mother Rita and Gerald. Flashbacks depict moments where he feels shielded and cherished, especially when other children torment him. Rita skillfully diverts his focus away from his perceived inferiority, guiding him towards their family piano, a sanctuary for their close-knit trio. Weller, famous as a member of the Jam and Style Council, delivers a captivating performance in this movie, hinting at more roles to come. As Rita, Ronan exudes a gentle radiance. We catch glimpses of her bond with George’s Grenadian-immigrant father (CJ Beckford), who finds a sense of belonging in the bustling rhythm of a jazz club. However, we also witness the danger that a Black man involved with a white woman can face during that era, causing their relationship to be tragically torn apart. It’s not hard to comprehend why Rita is so protective of her son, fearing he may suffer the same fate as his father. Despite this apprehension, their connection remains playful and loving—Rita would do anything to shield him from the harsh realities of the world.

Despite her best efforts, there’s only a certain amount she can manage. George encounters a compassionate night guard named Ife (played by Benjamin Clémentine), who ensures Londoners have turned off their lights after sunset. Seeing Ife, George feels a sense of pride being Black, a feeling instilled in him by his mother to prevent him from feeling inferior to others. However, there are individuals—not just white ones—who exploit him. Despite his young age, Heffernan’s portrayal of George exudes an understated maturity and dignity, even though he may not fully realize it himself. Throughout the film, you find yourself feeling a strong sense of protection towards him, right up until the poignant final scene, which is both sweet and heart-wrenching.

In the film “Blitz“, McQueen occasionally ventures into artistic risks, though not as many as one might expect given his background in fine and video art. Occasionally throughout the movie, it seems like electrical sparks dissolve into a hazy field of daisies. It’s tough to interpret exactly what this means. These scenes appear to represent the uncertain boundary between fear and comfort, as George relentlessly journeys back to his mother. In a city littered with debris and flames, the homeward journey is treacherous. However, he also needs to find peace within himself, a quest that’s challenging for various reasons. Perhaps the daisies symbolize this pursuit of inner tranquility. Understanding their meaning isn’t crucial; what matters is seeing them blooming with life.

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2024-11-02 01:06