“Blitz” Film Review: Steve McQueen’s Sobering Reminder of War’s Grim Realities

Academy Award-winning director Steve McQueen’s latest film, “Blitz”, is a powerful and thought-provoking portrayal of the devastating effects of war on civilians. The film, which premiered at the 2024 BFI London Film Festival, tells the story of a nine-year-old mixed-race boy, George, who embarks on a perilous journey to find his mother and grandfather in London’s heavily targeted East End during the Blitz.

McQueen, who also wrote the screenplay, chose to tell the story through a child’s eyes to highlight the innocence and vulnerability of those affected by war. “With adults, there’s a moment where we tend to look away, or tend to compromise or not listen,” he explained. “But with a child, it’s good and bad, right and wrong… it’s very sobering.”

The film is based on McQueen’s own experiences growing up in London, as well as his research into the Blitz and its impact on ordinary people. He wanted to portray the racism and sexism that existed during that time, as well as the bravery and resilience of those who lived through it. “As much as we’re fighting our enemy, we’re fighting ourselves in one way, shape, form, reality… it’s sexism, it’s racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, there’s all kinds of things going on,” he said.

The film features impressive performances from newcomer Elliott Heffernan, who plays George, and Saoirse Ronan, who plays his mother. The two actors’ on-screen chemistry is undeniable, and their characters’ love and devotion to each other is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war.

McQueen was full of praise for Heffernan, who landed the part after impressing in an open casting submission. “Often, you don’t know what you’re looking for, but you recognise it when you see it,” he explained. “On his casting tape, I thought ‘this guy, there’s a stillness in him’… he’s fascinating. You want to look at him, almost like a silent movie star.”

“Blitz” is a timely reminder of the importance of telling the stories of those who have been affected by war and conflict. The film is set to be released in select theatres from November 1, before being released on Apple TV+ from November 22.