Darkest Hour

        Directed by Joe Wright and starring Gary Oldman, this is a British war drama focusing on the early days of Winston Churchill. Having just won the Golden Globe for his portrayal of Mr. Churchill, Gary Oldman is now the front runner for a well deserved  Best Actor Oscar as well.

           The film is set in May 1940,  Mr. Churchill has just become the new Prime Minister just as Hitler's forces are occupying most of Europe and bearing down on England. The British forces are trapped on the beaches of Dunkirk and Mr. Churchill is faced with ultimate decisions affecting the troops, England and the outcome of the war. 

            Portraying Winston Churchill may very well be the pinnacle of Mr. Oldman's career. It is a towering performance that presides over the entire film. Praise must be given to his co-stars as well though, including Kristen Scott Thomas as Mrs. Churchill, Ben Mendelsohn as King George, and a wonderful Lily James as Elizabeth Layton, Mr. Churchill's loyal secretary.

            Mr.  Wright's direction moves the film along at a brisk clip with wonderful sets and cinematography, faithfully recreating  wartime London. I didn't want to see it end. The film makes a great companion piece to Christopher Nolan's "Dunkirk" as history is seen from both sides in what was truly a darkest time for England.