Trailerblazing -- Darkest Hour

Darkest Hour -- November 22, 2017 -- directed by Joe Wright -- starring Gary Oldman, Lily James, Ben Mendelsohn, Stephen Dillane, Kristin Scott Thomas

Not to be confused under any circumstances with The Darkest Hour, the 2011 science fiction romp starring electricity-spewing aliens, this drama depicts the early days of Winston Churchill's first term as Prime Minister. With Nazi Germany inching closer to invading Great Britain and intrigue brewing within his own party, Churchill needed to hold on to his ideals and love of country in order to lead his people. My first question about the trailer is: who is Gary Oldman not capable of playing? The man is a true chameleon and I am hoping that this film finally leads him to an Oscar, the one accolade that he has been deserving of since the dawn of time. I do not think that there are many people who can successfully play Sid Vicious, Beethoven, a futuristic arms dealer, a tech mogul and one of the most iconic British politicians. Scott Thomas is always a regal, intellectual presence and her portrayal of Clementine Churchill is also sure to be talked about come award season. James has been getting intriguing roles lately -- from Cinderella to Pride and Prejudice and Zombies to Baby Driver, just to name a few -- and has another chance to show off her dramatic chops here. It is great to see Mendelsohn (Orson!) and Dillane (Stannis!) again; they are fantastic character actors who bring something extra to every project. Director Wright (Pride & Prejudice, Atonement, Hanna) has experience with bringing grand, emotional stories to the big screen and is the perfect director for this historical tale. With an amazing cast and a director who never shies from his vision, Darkest Hour looks like a winner.