“1917,” directed by Sam Mendes, is a visually stunning war film set during World War I. It follows two young British soldiers, Schofield and Blake, on a mission to deliver a critical message that could save 1,600 of their comrades. The movie is renowned for its unique “one-shot” filming technique, creating an immersive and intense experience.
Simile
Movie Scene Device Example Schofield describing the war landscape “The landscape is like a nightmare.” Blake comparing the urgency of their mission “It’s like a race against time.”
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example General Erinmore briefing the soldiers “The battlefield is a graveyard.” Schofield’s reflection on war “War is hell on earth.”
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example Blake’s eagerness to save his brother Hints at Blake’s eventual fate. The abandoned German trench Signals danger lurking ahead for the soldiers.
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The cherry blossom tree Represents hope and renewal amidst destruction. The river sequence Symbolizes purification and rebirth.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Blake dying in the mission to save others Situational irony of the hero’s journey. Schofield’s near-death experiences Dramatic irony as the audience knows the dangers he faces.
Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example The opening trench sequence Vivid descriptions of the war-torn landscape. Nighttime ruins illuminated by flares Striking visuals creating a haunting atmosphere .
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example Tranquil countryside vs. war zone Highlights the stark contrast between peace and war. Schofield’s calm demeanor vs. the chaos around him Emphasizes his stoic nature amidst turmoil.
Personification
Movie Scene Device Example Describing the war machines “The guns roared angrily.” The landscape reacting to the battle “The earth shuddered with each explosion.”
Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example Describing the enemy lines “A sea of German soldiers.” Blake’s description of their mission’s importance “This mission is life or death for 1,600 men.”
Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example Reference to Greek mythology in General’s briefing Alludes to the Trojan War. Schofield quoting poetry References to classic war literature.
Character Studies
Schofield
Literary Device Explanation Foreshadowing Schofield’s cautious nature hints at his survival instincts. Symbolism The photograph he carries symbolizes his longing for home and family.
Blake
Literary Device Explanation Irony Blake’s heroic nature leads to his tragic demise, contrasting expectations. Metaphor Blake as a representation of youthful bravery and sacrifice.
Character Dynamics
Schofield and Blake
Literary Device Explanation Juxtaposition Schofield’s experience vs. Blake’s naivety highlights their character arcs. Dialogue Their conversations reveal personal motivations and build their bond.
Schofield and the General
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism The General represents authority and the burden of command.Irony The General’s detachment contrasts with Schofield’s personal stakes.
War and Sacrifice
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism The desolate landscapes symbolize the devastation of war. Irony The futility of missions despite heroic efforts.
Brotherhood and Camaraderie
Literary Device Explanation Dialogue Conversations between soldiers build a sense of brotherhood. Imagery Shared hardships create vivid scenes of camaraderie.
Hope and Despair
Literary Device Explanation Juxtaposition Hopeful moments contrasted with scenes of despair. Symbolism The cherry blossom tree as a symbol of hope amidst war.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Imagery One-shot cinematography Enhances the immersive and continuous experience of the war environment. Irony Sound design Contrasting peaceful music with violent scenes underscores the irony . Symbolism Lighting Use of light and shadow to symbolize hope and danger respectively. Metaphor Set design The war-torn landscapes metaphorically represent the characters’ internal struggles.
Scene Selection
Scene: The Abandoned Farmhouse
Scene: Crossing No Man’s Land
YouTube Link: Crossing No Man’s Land Scene Breakdown: The tension and danger are palpable through the use of continuous shots and sound design. The barren landscape, littered with the remnants of war, serves as a powerful metaphor for the soldiers’ treacherous journey.
Scene: The Final Sprint
YouTube Link: The Final Sprint Scene Breakdown: Schofield’s desperate run to deliver the message is a masterclass in suspense. The use of a single, unbroken shot, combined with the escalating score, amplifies the urgency and stakes of his mission. The scene is a visual and auditory representation of hope against all odds.
Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz
What literary device is used when Schofield describes the landscape as “like a nightmare”?
Which character’s tragic fate is an example of irony ?
A) Schofield
B) Blake
C) The General
D) The German soldier
What does the cherry blossom tree symbolize in the film?
A) Destruction
B) War
C) Hope
D) Death
Which technique enhances the use of imagery in the film?
A) Dialogue
B) One-shot cinematography
C) Sound design
D) Lighting
What major theme is highlighted by the contrast between peaceful moments and scenes of despair?
A) War and Sacrifice
B) Brotherhood and Camaraderie
C) Hope and Despair
D) Authority and Command
