Director Sam Mendes has announced the main cast of his upcoming Beatles biopic series. This marks the first time that all four band members and their estates have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film.
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Each movie will focus on one of the four members of the iconic band, The Beatles, whose music defined a generation and transformed youth culture worldwide. Formed in 1960, the band included legends like Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, John Lennon, and George Harrison. Despite going their separate ways in the 1970s, The Beatles remain the biggest-selling band of all time.
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<h2>Meet the cast of the Beatles biopic series</h2>
Paul Mescal, known for his role in Gladiator II, will portray Paul McCartney. Saltburn star Barry Keoghan will take on the role of Ringo Starr, Babygirl star Harris Dickinson will play John Lennon, and Stranger Things star Joseph Quinn will portray George Harrison.
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<h2>Sam Mendes' vision for the series</h2>
The films will be directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes (American Beauty, 1917). Speaking at CinemaCon, Mendes shared his vision for the project, explaining that each movie will focus on one band member:
"Each one is told from the particular perspective of just one of the guys," Mendes said. "They intersect in different ways&mdash;sometimes overlapping, sometimes not. They're four very different human beings. Perhaps this is a chance to understand them a little more deeply. But together, all four films will tell the story of the greatest band in history."
The films don't have an official release date but are expected to be released in 2028.
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Sam Mendes unveils cast for Beatles biopic series, marking a historic first with full life story and music rights from all band members and their estates.

Director Sam Mendes has announced the main cast of his upcoming Beatles biopic series. This marks the first time that all four band members and their estates have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film. Also Read: L2: Empuraan surpasses Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava, becomes the fastest Indian movie to cross $20 million Each movie will focus on one of the four members of the iconic band, The Beatles, whose music defined a generation and transformed youth culture worldwide. Formed in 1960, the band included legends like Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, John Lennon, and George Harrison. Despite going their separate ways in the 1970s, The Beatles remain the biggest-selling band of all time. Also Read: The Venom and Spider-Man crossover we never got, Tom Hardy shared insights on cancelled project Meet the cast of the Beatles biopic series Paul Mescal, known for his role in Gladiator II, will portray Paul McCartney. Saltburn star Barry Keoghan will take on the role of Ringo Starr, Babygirl star Harris Dickinson will play John Lennon, and Stranger Things star Joseph Quinn will portray George Harrison. Also Read: Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc gets official international release date Sam Mendes' vision for the series The films will be directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes (American Beauty, 1917). Speaking at CinemaCon, Mendes shared his vision for the project, explaining that each movie will focus on one band member: "Each one is told from the particular perspective of just one of the guys," Mendes said. "They intersect in different ways—sometimes overlapping, sometimes not. They're four very different human beings. Perhaps this is a chance to understand them a little more deeply. But together, all four films will tell the story of the greatest band in history." The films don't have an official release date but are expected to be released in 2028. Also Read: BTS's agency BigHit Music shares update on online harassment lawsuit

Sam Mendes's The Beatles biopic film series announces its main cast

Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes celebrates cinema and the families we choose and that choose us with his new film 'Empire of Light', a star-studded drama he wrote, directed and produced.

A love story set in an English seaside town in the early 1980s, 'Empire of Light'&nbsp;stars Olivia Colman, Colin Firth and Toby Jones as workers in a local movie theatre, the 'Empire'.

With the country in recession, Colman's character Hilary recovering from an episode of mental illness, and racial tensions building outside the doors of the Empire, the new decade has got off to an uncertain start for the staff.

The arrival of Stephen, an upbeat young Black ticket collector played by Micheal Ward, injects new life into the cinema. Stephen instantly bonds with Hilary, a lonely middle-aged woman, and their budding relationship helps both find solace and inspiration.

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Mendes, who won the best director Oscar for 1999's 'American Beauty'&nbsp;and co-wrote the Oscar-nominated 2019 film '1917'&nbsp;makes his solo screenplay debut with 'Empire of Light,'&nbsp;which he wrote during the COVID-19 pandemic. Much of it reflected on growing up and his mother, he said.

"It was very personal, it really was stimulated by memories from my childhood of growing up around someone who was mentally falling apart and yet somehow heroically was also bringing me up at the same time. So it is a love letter to her and to the courage of people struggling with mental illness," the director, 57, told Reuters at the movie's London Film Festival premiere on Wednesday.

"And at the same time it's also set in and around the cinema that's seen better days, written during a time when we were worried that all those things were going and we'd never see them again," he said.

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Mendes wrote the role of Hilary for Colman and asked Ward for input on his character.

"It's rare that you get to see an older woman with a younger man, especially an older white woman but younger Black man. So for me to tell that story was just super important and working with Olivia made that a lot more easier," said Ward.

'Empire of Light' will&nbsp;release in U.S. cinemas on Dec. 9 and globally in early 2023.

Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes celebrates cinema and the families we choose and that choose us with his new film 'Empire of Light', a star-studded drama he wrote, directed and produced.

Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes celebrates cinema and the families we choose and that choose us with his new film 'Empire of Light', a star-studded drama he wrote, directed and produced. A love story set in an English seaside town in the early 1980s, 'Empire of Light' stars Olivia Colman, Colin Firth and Toby Jones as workers in a local movie theatre, the 'Empire'. With the country in recession, Colman's character Hilary recovering from an episode of mental illness, and racial tensions building outside the doors of the Empire, the new decade has got off to an uncertain start for the staff. The arrival of Stephen, an upbeat young Black ticket collector played by Micheal Ward, injects new life into the cinema. Stephen instantly bonds with Hilary, a lonely middle-aged woman, and their budding relationship helps both find solace and inspiration. Jamie Lee Curtis signs document assuring not to appear in another 'Halloween' movie Mendes, who won the best director Oscar for 1999's 'American Beauty' and co-wrote the Oscar-nominated 2019 film '1917' makes his solo screenplay debut with 'Empire of Light,' which he wrote during the COVID-19 pandemic. Much of it reflected on growing up and his mother, he said. "It was very personal, it really was stimulated by memories from my childhood of growing up around someone who was mentally falling apart and yet somehow heroically was also bringing me up at the same time. So it is a love letter to her and to the courage of people struggling with mental illness," the director, 57, told Reuters at the movie's London Film Festival premiere on Wednesday. "And at the same time it's also set in and around the cinema that's seen better days, written during a time when we were worried that all those things were going and we'd never see them again," he said. When Alan Rickman channeled Snape and told Tom Felton: 'Don't step on my f***ing cloak' Mendes wrote the role of Hilary for Colman and asked Ward for input on his character. "It's rare that you get to see an older woman with a younger man, especially an older white woman but younger Black man. So for me to tell that story was just super important and working with Olivia made that a lot more easier," said Ward. 'Empire of Light' will release in U.S. cinemas on Dec. 9 and globally in early 2023.

Sam Mendes' 'Empire of Light' a love letter to movies and his mother

Colin Firth, Toby Jones, Crystal Clarke, and Tanya Moodie have boarded the cast of 'Empire of Light',&nbsp;a romantic drama directed by Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes. The movie, which is set in and around a beautiful old cinema on the South Coast of England in the 1980s, marks Mendes’ first solo outing as a screenwriter. 
 
The quartet of powerhouse performers joins previously announced cast members Academy Award winner Olivia Colman and Micheal Ward in the film, reported Deadline.

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'Empire of Light', a Searchlight Pictures title, marks Mendes’ follow-up to his 2020 best picture nominee war drama 1917. 
 
For his next film, the filmmaker is once again collaborating with legendary cinematographer Roger Deakins, who won an Oscar for best cinematography at the 2020 Academy Awards for his work on 1917. 
 
Mendes will also produce the project through his Neal Street Productions along with Pippa Harris. 
 
Colin, a double Oscar winner, recently starred opposite Colman in Eva Husson’s Sony Pictures Classics drama Mothering Sunday. Jones will next appear in Jon S Baird’s historical drama Tetris, Sebastian Lelio’s The Wonder and the fifth as yet untitled Indiana Jones film.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/feeling-like-march-2020-heres-how-covid-omicron-is-affecting-entertainment-again-438366">Feeling like March 2020? Here's how Covid Omicron is affecting entertainment again</a> 
 
Clarke recently wrapped filming on the second and third series of Masterpiece’s Sanditon and will next be seen in Sean McNamara’s fantasy feature The King’s Daughter. 
 
Moodie currently stars in A Discovery of Witches, a Sky Original series.

Colin Firth, Toby Jones, Crystal Clarke, and Tanya Moodie have boarded the cast of 'Empire of Light', a romantic drama directed by Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes.

Colin Firth, Toby Jones, Crystal Clarke, and Tanya Moodie have boarded the cast of 'Empire of Light', a romantic drama directed by Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes. The movie, which is set in and around a beautiful old cinema on the South Coast of England in the 1980s, marks Mendes’ first solo outing as a screenwriter. The quartet of powerhouse performers joins previously announced cast members Academy Award winner Olivia Colman and Micheal Ward in the film, reported Deadline. Honorary Oscars gala delayed as Hollywood braces for Omicron 'Empire of Light', a Searchlight Pictures title, marks Mendes’ follow-up to his 2020 best picture nominee war drama 1917. For his next film, the filmmaker is once again collaborating with legendary cinematographer Roger Deakins, who won an Oscar for best cinematography at the 2020 Academy Awards for his work on 1917. Mendes will also produce the project through his Neal Street Productions along with Pippa Harris. Colin, a double Oscar winner, recently starred opposite Colman in Eva Husson’s Sony Pictures Classics drama Mothering Sunday. Jones will next appear in Jon S Baird’s historical drama Tetris, Sebastian Lelio’s The Wonder and the fifth as yet untitled Indiana Jones film. Feeling like March 2020? Here's how Covid Omicron is affecting entertainment again Clarke recently wrapped filming on the second and third series of Masterpiece’s Sanditon and will next be seen in Sean McNamara’s fantasy feature The King’s Daughter. Moodie currently stars in A Discovery of Witches, a Sky Original series.

Empire of Light: Toby Jones, Colin Firth & others join Sam Mendes’ romantic drama

With just a few days left for Hollywood's biggest night- Oscar Awards to commence, fans across the world are feverishly predicting the winners. The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony on Sunday- and the big reveal of who wins the top prize of best film is perhaps one of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony. Here, watch our top 6 predictions for Oscars 2020.

Watch our top 6 predictions for Oscars 2020

The British Academy of Film and Television Awards held on Sunday night saw British filmmaker Sam Mendes' war drama '1917' take home 7 awards including the Best Picture and Best Director for Mendes.&nbsp; 
 
The awards ceremony- considered as the British Oscars- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-1917-wins-best-film-and-best-director-best-actor-joaquin-phoenix-talks-of-lack-of-diversity-278203">received criticism for the lack of diversity </a>with #BAFTAsowhite trending on social media.&nbsp; 
 
The other big winners of the night were Joaquin Phoenix, Renee Zellwegger and Brad Pitt.&nbsp; 
 
Here is the complete list of winners- 
 
Best Film-1917 
 
Outstanding British Film-1917 
 
Best Actress - Renée Zellweger, ' Judy'&nbsp; 
 
Best Actor- Joaquin Phoenix, Joker 
 
Best Supporting Actress- Laura Dern, Marriage Story 
 
Best Supporting Actor- Brad Pitt, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood 
 
Outstanding Debut By A British Writer, Director Or Producer- Mark Jenkin, Kate Byers, Linn Waite, Bait&nbsp; 
 
Film Not In The English Language: Parasite 
 
Best Documentary - For Sama 
 
Animated Film- Klaus 
 
Best Director- Sam Mendes, '1917' 
 
Original Screenplay: Han Jin Won, Bong Joon-Ho, 'Parasite'&nbsp; 
 
Adapted Screenplay: Taika Waititi, 'Jojo Rabbit'&nbsp; 
 
Original Score- Hildur Guđnadóttir, 'Joker'&nbsp; 
 
Best Casting - Shayna Markowitz, 'Joker'&nbsp; 
 
Cinematography- Roger Deakins, '1917'&nbsp; 
 
Editing- Andrew Buckland, Michael Mccusker, Le Mans '66 
 
Production Design- Dennis Gassner, Lee Sandales, '1917' 
 
Costume Design- Jacqueline Durran, 'Little Women'&nbsp; 
 
Make-Up &amp; Hair: Vivian Baker, Kazu Hiro, Anne Morgan, 'Bombshell' 
 
Sound- Scott Millan, Oliver Tarney, Rachael Tate, Mark Taylor, Stuart Wilson, '1917'&nbsp; 
 
Special Visual Effects- Greg Butler, Guillaume Rocheron, Dominic Tuohy, '1917'&nbsp; 
 
British Short Animation- Maryam Mohajer, 'Grandad Was A Romantic'&nbsp; 
 
British Short Film- Carol Dysinger, Elena Andreicheva, 'Learning To Skateboard In A Warzone (If You're A Girl)'&nbsp; 
 
Rising Star Award- Micheal Ward

The British Academy of Film and Television Awards held on Sunday night saw British filmmaker Sam Mendes' war drama '1917' take home 7 awards including the Best Picture and Best Director for Mendes.

The British Academy of Film and Television Awards held on Sunday night saw British filmmaker Sam Mendes' war drama '1917' take home 7 awards including the Best Picture and Best Director for Mendes. The awards ceremony- considered as the British Oscars- received criticism for the lack of diversity with #BAFTAsowhite trending on social media. The other big winners of the night were Joaquin Phoenix, Renee Zellwegger and Brad Pitt. Here is the complete list of winners- Best Film-1917 Outstanding British Film-1917 Best Actress - Renée Zellweger, ' Judy' Best Actor- Joaquin Phoenix, Joker Best Supporting Actress- Laura Dern, Marriage Story Best Supporting Actor- Brad Pitt, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Outstanding Debut By A British Writer, Director Or Producer- Mark Jenkin, Kate Byers, Linn Waite, Bait Film Not In The English Language: Parasite Best Documentary - For Sama Animated Film- Klaus Best Director- Sam Mendes, '1917' Original Screenplay: Han Jin Won, Bong Joon-Ho, 'Parasite' Adapted Screenplay: Taika Waititi, 'Jojo Rabbit' Original Score- Hildur Guđnadóttir, 'Joker' Best Casting - Shayna Markowitz, 'Joker' Cinematography- Roger Deakins, '1917' Editing- Andrew Buckland, Michael Mccusker, Le Mans '66 Production Design- Dennis Gassner, Lee Sandales, '1917' Costume Design- Jacqueline Durran, 'Little Women' Make-Up & Hair: Vivian Baker, Kazu Hiro, Anne Morgan, 'Bombshell' Sound- Scott Millan, Oliver Tarney, Rachael Tate, Mark Taylor, Stuart Wilson, '1917' Special Visual Effects- Greg Butler, Guillaume Rocheron, Dominic Tuohy, '1917' British Short Animation- Maryam Mohajer, 'Grandad Was A Romantic' British Short Film- Carol Dysinger, Elena Andreicheva, 'Learning To Skateboard In A Warzone (If You're A Girl)' Rising Star Award- Micheal Ward

BAFTA 2020: '1917' leads with seven wins, here's the complete list of winners

First World War drama '1917' was the big winner at the BAFTAs on Sunday, picking up seven awards including best picture and director for Sam Mendes, at a glittering ceremony that made headlines for a glaring lack of diversity among nominees. 
 
The thrilling drama, shot in what appears to be a single take, was also honoured in the outstanding British film, sound, production design, cinematography and special visual effects categories. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-bafta-2020-1917-leads-with-six-wins-heres-the-complete-list-of-winners-278207">See the complete list of winners here</a> 
 
Britain`s top movie awards have been criticized for having all-white shortlists in its acting categories and an all-male one for director, triggering the use of the hashtag #BaftasSoWhite on social media. 
 
BAFTA boss Amanda Berry had said she was "very disappointed" by the lack of diversity. 
 
Joaquin Phoenix voted the best actor for his critically acclaimed transformation from vulnerable loner into confident villain in "Joker", addressed the issue head on in his acceptance speech. 
 
The industry was sending "a very clear message to people of colour that you`re not welcome here", he said, adding it "was on us" to dismantle a system of oppression.

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Joaquin Phoenix accepts his Leading Actor award for his performance in <a href="https://twitter.com/jokermovie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jokermovie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EEBAFTAs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EEBAFTAs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAFTAs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAFTAs</a> <a href="https://t.co/1nK49CjrJo">pic.twitter.com/1nK49CjrJo</a>
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Award presenter Rebel Wilson drew the biggest laughs and cheers of the evening when, after reading out the all-male best director list, said: "I don`t think I could do what they do, honestly I just don`t have the balls". 
 
Actress Scarlett Johansson, who missed out in the leading and supporting actress categories, told Reuters the all-male directing shortlist showed women were being held back and the industry had to be mindful of the issue. 
 
"It`s pretty disappointing, especially because there were so many great films this year that happened to be directed by women," she said. 
 
Renee Zellweger beat Johansson to the best actress gong for her portrayal of Judy Garland in "Judy". The two will go head-to-head again at the Oscars on Feb. 9. 
 
It was a frustrating evening for Netflix`s "The Irishman", Martin Scorsese`s star-studded gangster drama, which was nominated in 10 categories but left empty handed. 
 
The streaming giant, however, fared better with divorce drama "Marriage Story", which saw Laura Dern win best supporting actress. 
Brad Pitt picked up best supporting actor for Quentin Tarantino`s "Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood", the only success for a movie nominated for 10 awards. 
 
Bong Joon Ho`s darkly comic film "Parasite" triumphed in the original screenplay and film not in the English language categories at the ceremony at London`s Royal Albert Hall.

First World War drama '1917' was the big winner at the BAFTAs on Sunday, picking up seven awards including best picture and director for Sam Mendes, at a glittering ceremony that made headlines for a glaring lack of diversity among nominees.

First World War drama '1917' was the big winner at the BAFTAs on Sunday, picking up seven awards including best picture and director for Sam Mendes, at a glittering ceremony that made headlines for a glaring lack of diversity among nominees. The thrilling drama, shot in what appears to be a single take, was also honoured in the outstanding British film, sound, production design, cinematography and special visual effects categories. See the complete list of winners here Britain`s top movie awards have been criticized for having all-white shortlists in its acting categories and an all-male one for director, triggering the use of the hashtag #BaftasSoWhite on social media. BAFTA boss Amanda Berry had said she was "very disappointed" by the lack of diversity. Joaquin Phoenix voted the best actor for his critically acclaimed transformation from vulnerable loner into confident villain in "Joker", addressed the issue head on in his acceptance speech. The industry was sending "a very clear message to people of colour that you`re not welcome here", he said, adding it "was on us" to dismantle a system of oppression. Joaquin Phoenix accepts his Leading Actor award for his performance in @jokermovie #EEBAFTAs #BAFTAs pic.twitter.com/1nK49CjrJo — BAFTA (@BAFTA) February 2, 2020 × Award presenter Rebel Wilson drew the biggest laughs and cheers of the evening when, after reading out the all-male best director list, said: "I don`t think I could do what they do, honestly I just don`t have the balls". Actress Scarlett Johansson, who missed out in the leading and supporting actress categories, told Reuters the all-male directing shortlist showed women were being held back and the industry had to be mindful of the issue. "It`s pretty disappointing, especially because there were so many great films this year that happened to be directed by women," she said. Renee Zellweger beat Johansson to the best actress gong for her portrayal of Judy Garland in "Judy". The two will go head-to-head again at the Oscars on Feb. 9. It was a frustrating evening for Netflix`s "The Irishman", Martin Scorsese`s star-studded gangster drama, which was nominated in 10 categories but left empty handed. The streaming giant, however, fared better with divorce drama "Marriage Story", which saw Laura Dern win best supporting actress. Brad Pitt picked up best supporting actor for Quentin Tarantino`s "Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood", the only success for a movie nominated for 10 awards. Bong Joon Ho`s darkly comic film "Parasite" triumphed in the original screenplay and film not in the English language categories at the ceremony at London`s Royal Albert Hall.

BAFTA 2020: '1917' wins best film and best director, best actor Joaquin Phoenix talks of lack of diversity

One of the frontrunners for the best picture award at the Oscars next month, Sam Mendes' '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment and &nbsp;Amblin Partners. The film has earned 10 nominations at the Oscars this year. 
 
The nominees of the the 92nd Academy Awards were announced here on Monday.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">See the complete list of nominees here</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-best-director-nominee-273978#martin-scorsese-273957">Directed by Mendes,</a> the film is based during the first world war and has Colin Ferral and Benedict Cumberbatch in cameos. The film has already fetched best picture and director <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/2020-golden-globes-awards-the-complete-list-of-winners-272377">Golden Globe last week</a>. Mendes has also won the best director award at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/critics-choice-awards-2020-the-complete-list-of-winners-273865">Critics Choice Awards.</a> 
 
This is not the first time that Reliance Entertainment has partnered with Steven Spielberg for Hollywood films. Spielberg's DreamWorks Studio and subsequently Amblin Partners and Reliance have been working together since 2009 and produced films like 'The Help', 'War Horse', 'Lincoln', 'The Hundred Foot Journey', 'The Girl On The Train', 'A Dog's Purpose', 'Bridge of Spies', 'The Post' and last year's 'Green Book'.&nbsp; 
 
Acfcording to reports, '1917' has been made on a budget of $90 million- a substantial part of which has been reportedly invested by Reliance. The film has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/1917-overthrows-star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalkers-at-the-american-box-office-273887">doing well at the&nbsp;box office </a>ever since its release in December 2019. The commercial and critical success of the film just reaffirms the gfact that Reliance- an Indian company- has quietly but firmly cemented its position in Hollywood in the past few years.&nbsp; 
 
Sam Mendes' '1917' is scheduled to release in India on January 17.&nbsp; 
 
The film has been nominated with 8 other films in best picture category at the Oscars 2020. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-best-film-nominee-273954">See which&nbsp;films have been nominated in best film category</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-parasite-makes-history-as-first-south-korean-film-to-get-best-picture-best-foreign-film-nods-274142">Also read:&nbsp;'Parasite' makes history as first South Korean film to get Best Picture, Best Foreign Film nods</a>

One of the frontrunners for the best picture award at the Oscars next month, Sam Mendes' '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment and Amblin Partners.

One of the frontrunners for the best picture award at the Oscars next month, Sam Mendes' '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment and Amblin Partners. The film has earned 10 nominations at the Oscars this year. The nominees of the the 92nd Academy Awards were announced here on Monday.See the complete list of nominees here Directed by Mendes, the film is based during the first world war and has Colin Ferral and Benedict Cumberbatch in cameos. The film has already fetched best picture and director Golden Globe last week. Mendes has also won the best director award at Critics Choice Awards. This is not the first time that Reliance Entertainment has partnered with Steven Spielberg for Hollywood films. Spielberg's DreamWorks Studio and subsequently Amblin Partners and Reliance have been working together since 2009 and produced films like 'The Help', 'War Horse', 'Lincoln', 'The Hundred Foot Journey', 'The Girl On The Train', 'A Dog's Purpose', 'Bridge of Spies', 'The Post' and last year's 'Green Book'. Acfcording to reports, '1917' has been made on a budget of $90 million- a substantial part of which has been reportedly invested by Reliance. The film has been doing well at the box office ever since its release in December 2019. The commercial and critical success of the film just reaffirms the gfact that Reliance- an Indian company- has quietly but firmly cemented its position in Hollywood in the past few years. Sam Mendes' '1917' is scheduled to release in India on January 17. The film has been nominated with 8 other films in best picture category at the Oscars 2020. See which films have been nominated in best film category Also read: 'Parasite' makes history as first South Korean film to get Best Picture, Best Foreign Film nods

Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment

If you haven’t seen Sam Mendes’ ‘1917’ yet then we suggest you do it because this film is an experience in itself. It is not just a war film but a piece of art that needs your attention, especially in the political climate that the movie has been released. With tensions rising between the US and Iran, speculations of World War III being dropped at the blink of an eye -- it’s only fair we look back at what happened between two soldiers amid the backdrop of World War I.&nbsp;

Throughout the length of the film, ‘1917’ keeps it real, focused, humane and relevant. A war film that shows the perils of war, how often have we seen that? While these might not be the only reasons why we think the film deserves an Oscar for Best Film, Best Cinematography, and Best Editing; it deserves also for its splendid camera work, effortless acting by all the stars and the screenplay that binds you to your chair in the theatres. We highly recommend you watch it in a theatre, preferably an IMAX with superior sound quality and mega-sized screen that lets you enjoy every scene as it flows uninterrupted with some powerful background score. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/1917-review-sam-mendes-film-is-haunting-heartbreaking-yet-the-most-compelling-piece-of-art-274832">Read our review of the film here.&nbsp;</a>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-predictions-will-sam-mendes-1917-become-first-war-film-after-hurt-locker-to-win-best-picture-273769">Oscars 2020 predictions: Will Sam Mendes' '1917' become first war film after 'Hurt Locker' to win Best Picture?</a></h2>

‘1917’ won Best Film at the Producers Guild of America awards on Saturday night in Los Angeles in addition to wins for Best Drama and Best Director at last month’s Golden Globes. This only ups the film’s chances for this year’s Oscars that already has a few surprise inclusions (we can’t forget ‘Parasite’ has been hauling up all the top prizes in this awards season). But there’s something about ‘1917’ that makes it the front runner for Best Film Oscars.&nbsp;

&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-to-go-host-less-for-the-second-year-in-a-row-273073">Also read: Oscars to go host-less for the second year in a row</a>

Watch the trailer of 1917 here:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="384" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gZjQROMAh_s" width="683"></iframe>

Producers Guild and The Academy usually run parallel, hinting at a possible winner for Best Picture Oscars 2020. Remember ‘Greenbook’ that took the prize for Best Picture Oscars right after it won the Producers Guild?&nbsp;

Actually it’s a straight-up fight between ‘Parasite’, the South Korean black comedy and ‘1917’, a war film that highlights why we shouldn’t have a war in the first place. This, is taking a different route from what critics and movie buffs had thought of before the awards season kicked off this year. It was initially thought to be a fight between Quentin Tarantino's ‘Once Upon A Time in Hollywood’ and Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Irishman’. However, the two have stayed away from any dialogue of hauling up the Best Film at the Oscars.&nbsp;

Other Oscars 2020 stories:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/salma-hayeks-big-butt-would-have-led-to-a-fashion-disaster-at-oscars-2003-if-not-for-renee-zellweger-273466">Salma Hayek's 'big butt' would have led to a fashion disaster at Oscars 2003 if not for Renee Zellweger</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jamie-foxx-on-lack-of-diversity-at-oscars-we-dont-start-these-movies-to-win-awards-274519">Jamie Foxx on lack of diversity at Oscars: We don't start these movies to win awards</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/2020-oscars-nominations-7-snubs-that-took-everyone-by-surprise-274263">Read about 7 snubs this Oscars nomination.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/academy-member-stephen-king-receives-backlash-for-comment-on-lack-of-diversity-at-oscars-274405">Stephen King receives backlash for comment on lack of diversity in Oscar nominations</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-parasite-makes-history-as-first-south-korean-film-to-get-best-picture-best-foreign-film-nods-274142">&nbsp;'Parasite' makes history as first South Korean film to get Best Picture, Best Foreign Film nod</a>

If you haven’t seen Sam Mendes’ ‘1917’ yet then we suggest you do it because this film is an experience in itself. It is not just a war film but a piece of art that needs your attention, especially in the political climate that the movie has been released.

If you haven’t seen Sam Mendes’ ‘1917’ yet then we suggest you do it because this film is an experience in itself. It is not just a war film but a piece of art that needs your attention, especially in the political climate that the movie has been released. With tensions rising between the US and Iran, speculations of World War III being dropped at the blink of an eye -- it’s only fair we look back at what happened between two soldiers amid the backdrop of World War I. Throughout the length of the film, ‘1917’ keeps it real, focused, humane and relevant. A war film that shows the perils of war, how often have we seen that? While these might not be the only reasons why we think the film deserves an Oscar for Best Film, Best Cinematography, and Best Editing; it deserves also for its splendid camera work, effortless acting by all the stars and the screenplay that binds you to your chair in the theatres. We highly recommend you watch it in a theatre, preferably an IMAX with superior sound quality and mega-sized screen that lets you enjoy every scene as it flows uninterrupted with some powerful background score. Read our review of the film here. Oscars 2020 predictions: Will Sam Mendes' '1917' become first war film after 'Hurt Locker' to win Best Picture? ‘1917’ won Best Film at the Producers Guild of America awards on Saturday night in Los Angeles in addition to wins for Best Drama and Best Director at last month’s Golden Globes. This only ups the film’s chances for this year’s Oscars that already has a few surprise inclusions (we can’t forget ‘Parasite’ has been hauling up all the top prizes in this awards season). But there’s something about ‘1917’ that makes it the front runner for Best Film Oscars. Also read: Oscars to go host-less for the second year in a row Watch the trailer of 1917 here: Producers Guild and The Academy usually run parallel, hinting at a possible winner for Best Picture Oscars 2020. Remember ‘Greenbook’ that took the prize for Best Picture Oscars right after it won the Producers Guild? Actually it’s a straight-up fight between ‘Parasite’, the South Korean black comedy and ‘1917’, a war film that highlights why we shouldn’t have a war in the first place. This, is taking a different route from what critics and movie buffs had thought of before the awards season kicked off this year. It was initially thought to be a fight between Quentin Tarantino's ‘Once Upon A Time in Hollywood’ and Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Irishman’. However, the two have stayed away from any dialogue of hauling up the Best Film at the Oscars. Other Oscars 2020 stories: Salma Hayek's 'big butt' would have led to a fashion disaster at Oscars 2003 if not for Renee Zellweger Jamie Foxx on lack of diversity at Oscars: We don't start these movies to win awards Read about 7 snubs this Oscars nomination. Stephen King receives backlash for comment on lack of diversity in Oscar nominations 'Parasite' makes history as first South Korean film to get Best Picture, Best Foreign Film nod

This is why we think Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars Best Film

"Some men just want the fight,” a Captain in the British army tells Lance Corporal Schofield (George MacKay) halfway into this week’s big release ‘1917’. It’s a line that well establishes the futility of war, which serves as the looming backdrop of Sam Mendes’ latest film.&nbsp;

Based on a brief anecdote that Mendes heard from his grandfather, the war-drama is haunting, heartbreaking yet the most compelling piece of cinema that one has seen in recent times. It makes you weep silently, it makes you take in the visual extravaganza that cinematographer Roger Deakins provides and makes you root for two uncanny heroes who are on a mission that seems impossible due to the times they are in.&nbsp;

At the onset, the story seems basic. Its April 1917, three years into the first world war, Lance Corporal Blake(Dean Charles Chapman) and his friend Schofield are assigned by their commanding officer (Colin Firth) to deliver a cautionary message to another battalion of the British army to retract its 1600 strong army from a attacking the enemy- the Germans- as it is a trap that will lead to absolute catastrophe. Blake is chosen to deliver the message as his elder brother is a part of that battalion. Schofield is chosen by Blake as they are friends.&nbsp;

While the task at hand seems easy but the two young soldiers have to cross German-occupied French towns, save themselves from being ambushed by the enemy and put themselves to test both physically and emotionally- just to deliver the message before dawn breaks because that's when the battalion is set to attack.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gZjQROMAh_s" width="560"></iframe>

War films never make for an easy watch. After a point, the mayhem that's spilling out on screen can seem a bit too much to take in. But Mendes, who serves as the screenplay writer along with Krysty Wilson-Cairns &nbsp;(they’ve been nominated in the best screenplay category at the Oscars) narrates a story that is engaging, heartbreaking and gives you goosebumps all at the same time. There are so many moments in the film that stay with you- the one where the two show compassion to a German soldier in the middle of their mission, or when Schofield explains why he hates going back home and doesn’t look forward to it, or when Captain Smith casually cautions the young soldiers that how war serves as an obsession to some men.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-best-film-nominee-273954">‘1917’</a> may not have too many dialogues, but it has haunting score by Thomas Newman(nominated at Oscars as well) which enhances the story to another level, much like its brilliant camera work which creates an illusion of one shot, and follows the two soldiers from start to finish and appears to have no cuts. Even as destruction - that is a result of any war- spills out on the screen, each frame is breathtaking.&nbsp;

The film has earned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-heres-the-full-list-of-nominees-274061">10 nominations at the Oscars</a> this year including in best picture, best direction category and one won’t be surprised if it takes home the top honours on February 9th. It deserves all the accolades that it has been getting and perhaps more.&nbsp;

‘1917’ takes you back to first world war- a topic that has fascinated filmmakers since time immemorial- and yet tells you a sublime story of love, loss, brotherhood, compassion, and bravery shown by two unknown soldiers. Above all, it highlights the futility of war- be it 100 years back, or even in the present day. Do not miss this one.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-predictions-will-sam-mendes-1917-become-first-war-film-after-hurt-locker-to-win-best-picture-273769">&nbsp;Will Sam Mendes' '1917' become first war film after 'Hurt Locker' to win Best Picture at Oscars?</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscar-nominated-film-1917-has-been-backed-by-indias-reliance-entertainment-274189">Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-best-director-nominee-273978">Meet the best director nominees</a>

"Some men just want the fight,” a Captain in the British army tells Lance Corporal Schofield (George MacKay) halfway into this week’s big release ‘1917’. It’s a line that well establishes the futility of war, which serves as the looming backdrop of Sam Mendes’ latest film.

"Some men just want the fight,” a Captain in the British army tells Lance Corporal Schofield (George MacKay) halfway into this week’s big release ‘1917’. It’s a line that well establishes the futility of war, which serves as the looming backdrop of Sam Mendes’ latest film. Based on a brief anecdote that Mendes heard from his grandfather, the war-drama is haunting, heartbreaking yet the most compelling piece of cinema that one has seen in recent times. It makes you weep silently, it makes you take in the visual extravaganza that cinematographer Roger Deakins provides and makes you root for two uncanny heroes who are on a mission that seems impossible due to the times they are in. At the onset, the story seems basic. Its April 1917, three years into the first world war, Lance Corporal Blake(Dean Charles Chapman) and his friend Schofield are assigned by their commanding officer (Colin Firth) to deliver a cautionary message to another battalion of the British army to retract its 1600 strong army from a attacking the enemy- the Germans- as it is a trap that will lead to absolute catastrophe. Blake is chosen to deliver the message as his elder brother is a part of that battalion. Schofield is chosen by Blake as they are friends. While the task at hand seems easy but the two young soldiers have to cross German-occupied French towns, save themselves from being ambushed by the enemy and put themselves to test both physically and emotionally- just to deliver the message before dawn breaks because that's when the battalion is set to attack. War films never make for an easy watch. After a point, the mayhem that's spilling out on screen can seem a bit too much to take in. But Mendes, who serves as the screenplay writer along with Krysty Wilson-Cairns (they’ve been nominated in the best screenplay category at the Oscars) narrates a story that is engaging, heartbreaking and gives you goosebumps all at the same time. There are so many moments in the film that stay with you- the one where the two show compassion to a German soldier in the middle of their mission, or when Schofield explains why he hates going back home and doesn’t look forward to it, or when Captain Smith casually cautions the young soldiers that how war serves as an obsession to some men. ‘1917’ may not have too many dialogues, but it has haunting score by Thomas Newman(nominated at Oscars as well) which enhances the story to another level, much like its brilliant camera work which creates an illusion of one shot, and follows the two soldiers from start to finish and appears to have no cuts. Even as destruction - that is a result of any war- spills out on the screen, each frame is breathtaking. The film has earned 10 nominations at the Oscars this year including in best picture, best direction category and one won’t be surprised if it takes home the top honours on February 9th. It deserves all the accolades that it has been getting and perhaps more. ‘1917’ takes you back to first world war- a topic that has fascinated filmmakers since time immemorial- and yet tells you a sublime story of love, loss, brotherhood, compassion, and bravery shown by two unknown soldiers. Above all, it highlights the futility of war- be it 100 years back, or even in the present day. Do not miss this one. Also read: Will Sam Mendes' '1917' become first war film after 'Hurt Locker' to win Best Picture at Oscars? Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment Meet the best director nominees

'1917' review: Sam Mendes' film is haunting, heartbreaking yet the most compelling piece of art

British actor Laurence Fox has lashed out at director Sam Mendes over his inclusion of a Sikh soldier in his Oscar-nominated film '1917'.&nbsp; 
 
Calling his casting distracting, Fox said that inclusion of actor Nabhaan Rizwaan as a Sikh soldier was not appropriate to the film's surrounding. The actor said 'forcing diversity on people' is 'institutionally racist'.&nbsp; 
 
Fox got embroiled in a row over 'white privilege' on writer James Delingpole's podcast where he stated that the Sikh character distracted from what the story was about. Read the review of '1917' here.&nbsp; 
 
The Sikhs, though, did fight in the first world war alongside the British forces but in their own regiments and not the British ones as depicted in Mendes' film.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/1917-review-sam-mendes-film-is-haunting-heartbreaking-yet-the-most-compelling-piece-of-art-274832">Read our review of the film here.&nbsp;</a> 
 
'1917' has received a whopping 10 nominations at the upcoming Oscars and is one of the frontrunners for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-best-film-nominee-273954">best picture </a>Oscar. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/this-is-why-we-think-sam-mendes-1917-is-front-runner-for-oscars-best-film-275491">Why we think the film stands a chance to win at Oscars</a> 
 
Fox further said, "It's like, "There were Sikhs fighting in this war" . . . OK, you're now diverting me away from what the story is. There is something institutionally racist about forcing diversity on people in that way.'&nbsp; 
 
The actor said the inclusion also made him question the credibility of the storyline and said the casting of Rizwaan caused 'very heightened awareness of the colour of someone's skin' because of 'the oddness of the casting'.&nbsp; 
 
While he criticised his casting, but Fox praised Rizwan's performance.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscar-nominated-film-1917-has-been-backed-by-indias-reliance-entertainment-274189">Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-predictions-will-sam-mendes-1917-become-first-war-film-after-hurt-locker-to-win-best-picture-273769">Will Sam Mendes' '1917' become first war film after 'Hurt Locker' to win Best Picture?</a> 
 
&nbsp;

British actor Laurence Fox has lashed out at director Sam Mendes over his inclusion of a Sikh soldier in his Oscar-nominated film '1917'. Calling his casting distracting, Fox said that inclusion of actor Nabhaan Rizwaan as a Sikh soldier was not appropriate to the film's surrounding.

British actor Laurence Fox has lashed out at director Sam Mendes over his inclusion of a Sikh soldier in his Oscar-nominated film '1917'. Calling his casting distracting, Fox said that inclusion of actor Nabhaan Rizwaan as a Sikh soldier was not appropriate to the film's surrounding. The actor said 'forcing diversity on people' is 'institutionally racist'. Fox got embroiled in a row over 'white privilege' on writer James Delingpole's podcast where he stated that the Sikh character distracted from what the story was about. Read the review of '1917' here. The Sikhs, though, did fight in the first world war alongside the British forces but in their own regiments and not the British ones as depicted in Mendes' film. Read our review of the film here. '1917' has received a whopping 10 nominations at the upcoming Oscars and is one of the frontrunners for the best picture Oscar. Why we think the film stands a chance to win at Oscars Fox further said, "It's like, "There were Sikhs fighting in this war" . . . OK, you're now diverting me away from what the story is. There is something institutionally racist about forcing diversity on people in that way.' The actor said the inclusion also made him question the credibility of the storyline and said the casting of Rizwaan caused 'very heightened awareness of the colour of someone's skin' because of 'the oddness of the casting'. While he criticised his casting, but Fox praised Rizwan's performance. Also read: Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment Will Sam Mendes' '1917' become first war film after 'Hurt Locker' to win Best Picture?

Sam Mendes called out for 'forcing diversity' in his Oscar nominated film '1917'

Ahead of the Academy Awards on February 9 the team from '1917' reflect on epic takes, being covered in mud and their award season journey.

World War One movie '1917' is nominated for ten Oscars including Best Picture and Best Director for Sam Mendes. So far this season, Mendes - who won an Oscar in 2000 for 'American Beauty' - has picked up prizes including a Golden Globe for Best Director - Motion Picture and Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Feature Film at the Directors Guild Awards.

Speaking at the DGAs Mendes said he's been 'thrilled' with the reaction to his movie: 'It's a big, ambitious film, it doesn't have big movie stars in the leads. And its war, it is a war that is over 100 years old. So, for me, I am absolutely thrilled with how it has gone.'&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/this-is-why-we-think-sam-mendes-1917-is-front-runner-for-oscars-best-film-275491">This is why we think Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars Best Film</a>

Sentiments echoed by his two lead actor George Mackay and Dean-Charles Chapman, who are both excited to be heading to the Oscars for the first time. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/1917-review-sam-mendes-film-is-haunting-heartbreaking-yet-the-most-compelling-piece-of-art-274832">Read the film's review here.</a>

MacKay and Chapman star as two young British soldiers who are tasked with crossing enemy lines to stop another battalion from launching an imminent attack on what appears to be retreating German troops but is really a trap.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscar-nominated-film-1917-has-been-backed-by-indias-reliance-entertainment-274189">Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment</a>

Inspired by Mendes' grandfather's experiences on the frontlines of World War One, Mendes co-wrote the piece with screenwriter Krysty Wilson-Cairns. Wilson-Cairns, who is nominated along with Mendes for Best Original Screenplay, said working on the movie was a dream come true, and part of the research took her to the battlefields in France:

''I was always fascinated by the two world wars I was a weird nerdy kid …I went and read first-hand accounts … I went to France I walked the route the boys would talk in the film.''

Made to look as if it is one continuous shot, the drama, set during a single day in April 1917, aims to tell the story in real-time - which meant super-long and detailed takes for the cast.

''We didn't have the option to say well, that part of the takes really good if we did a cutaway here we could use it you know if one of our takes .. if one went down you know like even 20 seconds before the end the shot you had to go all the way back to the front and start again,' cinematographer Roger Deakins explained.

Oscar-winner Deakins, who is nominated for Best Cinematographer, said there were high fives on set when Mendes was happy with a take.

Before they got to set a lot of prep was needed in advance for cast and crew, Chapman and MacKay rehearsed every scene on location for months.

'Well it's unlike any other job that we have ever done before .. that it's extraordinary the amount of rehearsal time, we rehearsed for 6 months,' said MacKay, explaining having everyone together for months before shooting a drama film is something he has never experienced before.

Meanwhile when they were on set it proved a dirty experience. 'There were times like in no mans land for continuity we'd have to literally sit in the mud ..just to get the mud exact,' Chapman told Reuters.

The 92nd Academy Awards are due to take place in Los Angeles on February 9, 2020.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-oscars-2020-mark-ruffalo-gal-gadot-mindy-kaling-and-others-announced-as-presenters-277375">Oscars 2020: Mark Ruffalo, Gal Gadot, Mindy Kaling and others announced as presenters</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-oscars-2020-nba-legend-kobe-bryant-to-be-honoured-on-the-awards-night-277345">Also read:&nbsp;Oscars 2020: NBA legend Kobe Bryant to be honoured on the awards night</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-stephen-king-issues-a-detailed-statement-on-oscars-diversity-issue-post-backlash-277262">Stephen King issues a detailed statement on Oscars diversity issue post backlash</a>

Ahead of the Academy Awards on February 9 the team from '1917' reflect on epic takes, being covered in mud and their award season journey. World War One movie '1917' is nominated for ten Oscars including Best Picture and Best Director for Sam Mendes.

Ahead of the Academy Awards on February 9 the team from '1917' reflect on epic takes, being covered in mud and their award season journey. World War One movie '1917' is nominated for ten Oscars including Best Picture and Best Director for Sam Mendes. So far this season, Mendes - who won an Oscar in 2000 for 'American Beauty' - has picked up prizes including a Golden Globe for Best Director - Motion Picture and Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Feature Film at the Directors Guild Awards. Speaking at the DGAs Mendes said he's been 'thrilled' with the reaction to his movie: 'It's a big, ambitious film, it doesn't have big movie stars in the leads. And its war, it is a war that is over 100 years old. So, for me, I am absolutely thrilled with how it has gone.' This is why we think Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars Best Film Sentiments echoed by his two lead actor George Mackay and Dean-Charles Chapman, who are both excited to be heading to the Oscars for the first time. Read the film's review here. MacKay and Chapman star as two young British soldiers who are tasked with crossing enemy lines to stop another battalion from launching an imminent attack on what appears to be retreating German troops but is really a trap. Oscar nominated film '1917' has been backed by India's Reliance Entertainment Inspired by Mendes' grandfather's experiences on the frontlines of World War One, Mendes co-wrote the piece with screenwriter Krysty Wilson-Cairns. Wilson-Cairns, who is nominated along with Mendes for Best Original Screenplay, said working on the movie was a dream come true, and part of the research took her to the battlefields in France: ''I was always fascinated by the two world wars I was a weird nerdy kid …I went and read first-hand accounts … I went to France I walked the route the boys would talk in the film.'' Made to look as if it is one continuous shot, the drama, set during a single day in April 1917, aims to tell the story in real-time - which meant super-long and detailed takes for the cast. ''We didn't have the option to say well, that part of the takes really good if we did a cutaway here we could use it you know if one of our takes .. if one went down you know like even 20 seconds before the end the shot you had to go all the way back to the front and start again,' cinematographer Roger Deakins explained. Oscar-winner Deakins, who is nominated for Best Cinematographer, said there were high fives on set when Mendes was happy with a take. Before they got to set a lot of prep was needed in advance for cast and crew, Chapman and MacKay rehearsed every scene on location for months. 'Well it's unlike any other job that we have ever done before .. that it's extraordinary the amount of rehearsal time, we rehearsed for 6 months,' said MacKay, explaining having everyone together for months before shooting a drama film is something he has never experienced before. Meanwhile when they were on set it proved a dirty experience. 'There were times like in no mans land for continuity we'd have to literally sit in the mud ..just to get the mud exact,' Chapman told Reuters. The 92nd Academy Awards are due to take place in Los Angeles on February 9, 2020. Oscars 2020: Mark Ruffalo, Gal Gadot, Mindy Kaling and others announced as presenters Also read: Oscars 2020: NBA legend Kobe Bryant to be honoured on the awards night Stephen King issues a detailed statement on Oscars diversity issue post backlash

Oscars 2020: '1917' director Sam Mendes happy with reaction to film

Hollywood's directors handed World War I thriller '1917'&nbsp;their top annual prize Saturday, one of the final major award shows that typically spells success at next month's Oscars.

The win makes British auteur Sam Mendes hot favourite for the best director Oscar the Directors Guild of America Awards have correctly predicted the victor the past six years running. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/1917-review-sam-mendes-film-is-haunting-heartbreaking-yet-the-most-compelling-piece-of-art-274832">Read our review of the film here.&nbsp;</a> 
 
The movie, which follows two British soldiers on a perilous mission across no man's land, has already scooped the Golden Globe for best drama and has 10 Oscar nominations.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/this-is-why-we-think-sam-mendes-1917-is-front-runner-for-oscars-best-film-275491"> Also read:&nbsp;This is why&nbsp;Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Mendes praised the work of fellow nominees Martin Scorsese 'The Irishman', Quentin Tarantino 'Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood', Bong Joon-ho 'Parasite'&nbsp;and Taika Waititi 'Jojo Rabbit'

"To those who kick dirt on the grave of the movies -- not so fast," he said, dedicating the win to his grandfather, whose life inspired the film. "I know it sounds a bit loopy but I did feel he was with us in a couple of occasions when I was struggling," said Mendes.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/2020-oscars-nominations-7-snubs-that-took-everyone-by-surprise-274263">Read about 7 snubs this Oscars nomination.&nbsp;</a> 
 
Victory also boosts the film's frontrunner status for the best picture Academy Award. The win comes more than two decades after Mendes first received the DGA award for 'American Beauty',&nbsp;a victory that led to Oscars wins for that film.

Mendes told the news agency that, his first win had been "frightening to be pitched into this sort of frenzy," adding: "I'm 20 years older and I'm probably a little less scared."

The film's two lead actors paid tribute to Mendes. "He's a master of so many mediums... he's pretty much done it all," said George MacKay.&nbsp;

"We'll be very excited to see what happens at the Oscars &nbsp;I've never been before!" his co-star Dean-Charles Chapman told the news agency. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2020-parasite-makes-history-as-first-south-korean-film-to-get-best-picture-best-foreign-film-nods-274142">'Parasite' makes history as first South Korean film to get Best Picture, Best Foreign Film nods</a>

Hollywood's directors handed World War I thriller '1917' their top annual prize Saturday, one of the final major award shows that typically spells success at next month's Oscars.

Hollywood's directors handed World War I thriller '1917' their top annual prize Saturday, one of the final major award shows that typically spells success at next month's Oscars. The win makes British auteur Sam Mendes hot favourite for the best director Oscar the Directors Guild of America Awards have correctly predicted the victor the past six years running. Read our review of the film here. The movie, which follows two British soldiers on a perilous mission across no man's land, has already scooped the Golden Globe for best drama and has 10 Oscar nominations. Also read: This is why Sam Mendes' '1917' is front runner for Oscars Mendes praised the work of fellow nominees Martin Scorsese 'The Irishman', Quentin Tarantino 'Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood', Bong Joon-ho 'Parasite' and Taika Waititi 'Jojo Rabbit' "To those who kick dirt on the grave of the movies -- not so fast," he said, dedicating the win to his grandfather, whose life inspired the film. "I know it sounds a bit loopy but I did feel he was with us in a couple of occasions when I was struggling," said Mendes. Read about 7 snubs this Oscars nomination. Victory also boosts the film's frontrunner status for the best picture Academy Award. The win comes more than two decades after Mendes first received the DGA award for 'American Beauty', a victory that led to Oscars wins for that film. Mendes told the news agency that, his first win had been "frightening to be pitched into this sort of frenzy," adding: "I'm 20 years older and I'm probably a little less scared." The film's two lead actors paid tribute to Mendes. "He's a master of so many mediums... he's pretty much done it all," said George MacKay. "We'll be very excited to see what happens at the Oscars I've never been before!" his co-star Dean-Charles Chapman told the news agency. 'Parasite' makes history as first South Korean film to get Best Picture, Best Foreign Film nods

Oscar front runner '1917' scoops top hollywood director prize for Sam Mendes

This year's Producers Guild of America awards ceremony took place on Saturday and '1917'&nbsp;took home the best picture award. The 31st edition of the awards recognised contribution of both the television and the film industry.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/1917-review-sam-mendes-film-is-haunting-heartbreaking-yet-the-most-compelling-piece-of-art-274832"> Read&nbsp;'1917' review here</a> 
 
According to the news agency, the winners in various television categories were the ones that have already bagged the prestigious<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/emmy-2019-winners-michelle-williams-patricia-arquette-raise-issues-of-pay-parity-trans-rights-251444"> Emmy awards</a>. Among these were 'Leaving Neverland', 'RuPaul's Drag Race', and 'Last Week Tonight with John Oliver'.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-2020-21-movies-you-should-watch-before-the-awards-night-273034">Also see: Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night</a> 
 
The best documentary was bestowed to 'Apollo 11'&nbsp;while other awardees were NASA project 'Apollo: Missions to the Moon'&nbsp;for outstanding producer of televised or streamed motion pictures and 'Toy Story 4'&nbsp;for the best animated theatrical motion picture. 
 
The PGA also honoured Ted Sarandos during the event. Jimmy Kimmel filled in for a sick Ellen DeGeneres and handed over the Milestone award to Ted. 
 
Earlier in January, the guild announced winners of the inaugural Innovation Award, which honoured "an outstanding entertainment endeavour across the emerging mediums of VR, AR, experiential and more," as well as the winners in the short form, children`s and sports categories. The gala evening happened at the Hollywood Palladium.

This year's Producers Guild of America awards ceremony took place on Saturday and '1917' took home the best picture award. The 31st edition of the awards recognised contribution of both the television and the film industry.

This year's Producers Guild of America awards ceremony took place on Saturday and '1917' took home the best picture award. The 31st edition of the awards recognised contribution of both the television and the film industry. Read '1917' review here According to the news agency, the winners in various television categories were the ones that have already bagged the prestigious Emmy awards. Among these were 'Leaving Neverland', 'RuPaul's Drag Race', and 'Last Week Tonight with John Oliver'. Also see: Oscars 2020: 21 movies you should watch before the awards night The best documentary was bestowed to 'Apollo 11' while other awardees were NASA project 'Apollo: Missions to the Moon' for outstanding producer of televised or streamed motion pictures and 'Toy Story 4' for the best animated theatrical motion picture. The PGA also honoured Ted Sarandos during the event. Jimmy Kimmel filled in for a sick Ellen DeGeneres and handed over the Milestone award to Ted. Earlier in January, the guild announced winners of the inaugural Innovation Award, which honoured "an outstanding entertainment endeavour across the emerging mediums of VR, AR, experiential and more," as well as the winners in the short form, children`s and sports categories. The gala evening happened at the Hollywood Palladium.

Producers Guild Awards recognises notable contributions from television and film industry

Riding high on its Golden Globes success, Universal's war drama '1917' dominated at the &nbsp;North American box office this weekend and earned an estimated $36.5 million.&nbsp; 
 
Trade pundits feel the box office numbers were unexpected but timely as the film is likely to nominated in multiple categories at the Oscars. The nominations will be announced on Monday morning and the Sam Mendes directorial is likely to be a frontrunner at the at Oscars next month.&nbsp; 
 
'1917,'&nbsp;filmed as if in one long, continuous shot -- one critic called it a "protean display of virtuoso filmmaking" -- flourished despite a lack of A-list stars. The central characters, two British lance corporals on a desperate mission, are played by George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman; Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch have minor roles. 
 
Disney's 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,' fell to second place after a month in first with a take of $15.1 million. The finale of the nine-film 'Skywalker Saga' has now taken in a global total just shy of $1 billion. 
 
In third, down one spot from last weekend, was Sony's action sequel 'Jumanji: The Next Level,' which earned $14 million for third place in the Friday-through-Sunday period. It stars Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Kevin Hart. 
 
Tied for fourth place were Paramount's new release 'Like a Boss' and Warner Bros. drama 'Just Mercy,' each with $10 million. 
'Like a Boss' stars Tiffany Haddish, Rose Byrne and Salma Hayek in the story of two friends whose small beauty company is targeted by an industry titan.&nbsp; 
 
'Just Mercy,' with Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx and Brie Larson, is based on the true story of a black man on death row in Alabama who appeals his wrongful conviction for the murder of a white woman. 
 
Rounding out the top 10 were:&nbsp; 
 
"Little Women" ($7.7 million) 
 
"Underwater" ($7 million) 
 
"Frozen II" ($5.8 million) 
 
"Knives Out" ($5.7 million) 
 
"Spies in Disguise" ($5.1 million)

Riding high on its Golden Globes success, Universal's war drama '1917' dominated at the North American box office this weekend and earned an estimated $36.5 million.

Riding high on its Golden Globes success, Universal's war drama '1917' dominated at the North American box office this weekend and earned an estimated $36.5 million. Trade pundits feel the box office numbers were unexpected but timely as the film is likely to nominated in multiple categories at the Oscars. The nominations will be announced on Monday morning and the Sam Mendes directorial is likely to be a frontrunner at the at Oscars next month. '1917,' filmed as if in one long, continuous shot -- one critic called it a "protean display of virtuoso filmmaking" -- flourished despite a lack of A-list stars. The central characters, two British lance corporals on a desperate mission, are played by George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman; Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch have minor roles. Disney's 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,' fell to second place after a month in first with a take of $15.1 million. The finale of the nine-film 'Skywalker Saga' has now taken in a global total just shy of $1 billion. In third, down one spot from last weekend, was Sony's action sequel 'Jumanji: The Next Level,' which earned $14 million for third place in the Friday-through-Sunday period. It stars Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Kevin Hart. Tied for fourth place were Paramount's new release 'Like a Boss' and Warner Bros. drama 'Just Mercy,' each with $10 million. 'Like a Boss' stars Tiffany Haddish, Rose Byrne and Salma Hayek in the story of two friends whose small beauty company is targeted by an industry titan. 'Just Mercy,' with Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx and Brie Larson, is based on the true story of a black man on death row in Alabama who appeals his wrongful conviction for the murder of a white woman. Rounding out the top 10 were: "Little Women" ($7.7 million) "Underwater" ($7 million) "Frozen II" ($5.8 million) "Knives Out" ($5.7 million) "Spies in Disguise" ($5.1 million)

'1917' overthrows 'Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalkers' at the American box office

Golden Globes 2020: Meet the best director nominees

Days after the release date of Sam Mendes` much-awaited film `1917` was announced, the first look poster of the war drama was dropped on Wednesday.

The poster was set in the war theme showcasing two armed men walking towards barbed wires with the Sun setting in the background.

`Time is the enemy` read the poster of the film.

Film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared the first look poster of the film on his Twitter account.

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All set for 17 Jan 2020 release in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>... First look poster of Sam Mendes' war film <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/1917Movie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#1917Movie</a>. <a href="https://t.co/W390JdWOV4">pic.twitter.com/W390JdWOV4</a>
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1209745739225546752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The film is an account of two young British soldiers at World War I during the spring of 1917 followed by different incidents.

'1917'&nbsp;is slated to hit the theatres in India on January 17, 2020.&nbsp;

Days after the release date of Sam Mendes` much-awaited film `1917` was announced, the first look poster of the war drama was dropped on Wednesday. The poster was set in the war theme showcasing two armed men walking towards barbed wires with the Sun setting in the background.

Days after the release date of Sam Mendes` much-awaited film `1917` was announced, the first look poster of the war drama was dropped on Wednesday. The poster was set in the war theme showcasing two armed men walking towards barbed wires with the Sun setting in the background. `Time is the enemy` read the poster of the film. Film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared the first look poster of the film on his Twitter account. All set for 17 Jan 2020 release in #India... First look poster of Sam Mendes' war film #1917Movie. pic.twitter.com/W390JdWOV4 — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) December 25, 2019 × The film is an account of two young British soldiers at World War I during the spring of 1917 followed by different incidents. '1917' is slated to hit the theatres in India on January 17, 2020.

1917: Check out the first look poster of Sam Mendes' war film

Presenting his World War One battlefield movie '1917'&nbsp;as a single shot had pros and cons for Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes. Mistakes meant lengthy retakes but "accidents" also gave an authenticity of life in the trenches.

From start to finish, fluid camerawork follows two young British soldiers tasked with crossing enemy lines to stop another battalion from launching an imminent attack on what appear to be retreating German troops but is really a trap.

Made to look as if it is one continuous shot, the drama, set during a single day in April 1917, aims to tell the story in real-time, immersing the audience in the mission of protagonists Blake and Schofield.

That meant lengthy rehearsals and super-long takes for the cast, led by Dean-Charles Chapman and George MacKay and including Colin Firth, Andrew Scott and Benedict Cumberbatch.

"When things went wrong we started again and sometimes that was very frustrating ... There were a few moments when I thought why have I done this to myself," Mendes told Reuters.

"A little bit of accidents is a good thing. You had your weather and light changes all the time ... animals, babies ... mud ... The men kept slipping over. But sometimes you want that in there. You want the reality of the physical exhaustion of what they're going through."

Last month, Mendes told a movie theatre audience in Los Angeles he chose this unusual storytelling technique because he wanted viewers "to feel like they were being pulled forward rather than being presented with information".

"We had over a mile of trenches that we dug because we couldn't repeat anything, we could never go back," he said.

Chapman (Blake) and MacKay (Schofield) rehearsed every scene on location for months, he added.

"The time we did start filming we unconsciously knew the steps and really the whole filmmaking process was about choreographing almost like a dance between the actors, the camera, the set," Chapman told Reuters in London.

"Walking at a crouch trying to hold the tension of the scene emotionally, the focus, and also just slipping all over the place - what we were doing was a drop in the ocean compared to what the men went through," MacKay added.

British-born Mendes, known for "American Beauty" and James Bond films 'Skyfall'&nbsp;and 'Spectre', has said '1917'&nbsp;was inspired by his grandfather's experiences on the frontlines of World War One.

Filmed this year and released in time for awards season, it has already been nominated for three Golden Globes.

"The reason I was able ... to make it quick was because we didn’t need to edit it because we had to put it together while we were shooting," Mendes told Reuters.

Presenting his World War One battlefield movie '1917' as a single shot had pros and cons for Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes. Mistakes meant lengthy retakes but "accidents" also gave an authenticity of life in the trenches.

Presenting his World War One battlefield movie '1917' as a single shot had pros and cons for Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes. Mistakes meant lengthy retakes but "accidents" also gave an authenticity of life in the trenches. From start to finish, fluid camerawork follows two young British soldiers tasked with crossing enemy lines to stop another battalion from launching an imminent attack on what appear to be retreating German troops but is really a trap. Made to look as if it is one continuous shot, the drama, set during a single day in April 1917, aims to tell the story in real-time, immersing the audience in the mission of protagonists Blake and Schofield. That meant lengthy rehearsals and super-long takes for the cast, led by Dean-Charles Chapman and George MacKay and including Colin Firth, Andrew Scott and Benedict Cumberbatch. "When things went wrong we started again and sometimes that was very frustrating ... There were a few moments when I thought why have I done this to myself," Mendes told Reuters. "A little bit of accidents is a good thing. You had your weather and light changes all the time ... animals, babies ... mud ... The men kept slipping over. But sometimes you want that in there. You want the reality of the physical exhaustion of what they're going through." Last month, Mendes told a movie theatre audience in Los Angeles he chose this unusual storytelling technique because he wanted viewers "to feel like they were being pulled forward rather than being presented with information". "We had over a mile of trenches that we dug because we couldn't repeat anything, we could never go back," he said. Chapman (Blake) and MacKay (Schofield) rehearsed every scene on location for months, he added. "The time we did start filming we unconsciously knew the steps and really the whole filmmaking process was about choreographing almost like a dance between the actors, the camera, the set," Chapman told Reuters in London. "Walking at a crouch trying to hold the tension of the scene emotionally, the focus, and also just slipping all over the place - what we were doing was a drop in the ocean compared to what the men went through," MacKay added. British-born Mendes, known for "American Beauty" and James Bond films 'Skyfall' and 'Spectre', has said '1917' was inspired by his grandfather's experiences on the frontlines of World War One. Filmed this year and released in time for awards season, it has already been nominated for three Golden Globes. "The reason I was able ... to make it quick was because we didn’t need to edit it because we had to put it together while we were shooting," Mendes told Reuters.

Lengthy takes and mile-long trenches: the making of Sam Mendes' war drama '1917'

Sam Mendes may have two of the most popular Bond films, but the director states that directing a hit franchise is one of the toughest tasks.&nbsp;

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Mendes&nbsp;admitted that directing the two Bond films had his 'stomach churning'. "When I think of them my stomach churns. It’s just so hard. You feel like the England football manager. You think, if I win, I’ll survive. If I lose, I’ll be pilloried. There is no victory. Just survival... Everyone has their own version of it in their head.”

Mendes&nbsp;directed critically acclaimed 'Skyfall' and 'Spectre'. Released in 2012, 'Skyfall' earned USD 1.1 billion and is the highest-grossing Bond movie to date.&nbsp;

'Spectre' was not as well received though and made $880 million at the box office.

Mendes passed on the baton to Danny Boyle for the 25th Bond film 'No Time To Die' but Boyle later stepped down due to creative difference with the producer. Eventually, the film has been directed by Cary Fukunaga.&nbsp; 
 
The 25th Bond film is also the last film of actor Daniel Craig as 007 agent. A few weeks earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/no-time-to-die-trailer-james-bonds-25th-film-doubles-up-the-thrill-266246">the trailer of the film </a>was released and it received great response from fans on social media.&nbsp;

The film, co-starring Rami Malek, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, Ana De Armas and Léa Seydoux, is set to release in April 2020.&nbsp;

Sam Mendes may have two of the most popular Bond films, but the director states that directing a hit franchise is one of the toughest tasks. In an interview with The Sunday Times, Mendes admitted that directing the two Bond films had his 'stomach churning'.

Sam Mendes may have two of the most popular Bond films, but the director states that directing a hit franchise is one of the toughest tasks. In an interview with The Sunday Times, Mendes admitted that directing the two Bond films had his 'stomach churning'. "When I think of them my stomach churns. It’s just so hard. You feel like the England football manager. You think, if I win, I’ll survive. If I lose, I’ll be pilloried. There is no victory. Just survival... Everyone has their own version of it in their head.” Mendes directed critically acclaimed 'Skyfall' and 'Spectre'. Released in 2012, 'Skyfall' earned USD 1.1 billion and is the highest-grossing Bond movie to date. 'Spectre' was not as well received though and made $880 million at the box office. Mendes passed on the baton to Danny Boyle for the 25th Bond film 'No Time To Die' but Boyle later stepped down due to creative difference with the producer. Eventually, the film has been directed by Cary Fukunaga. The 25th Bond film is also the last film of actor Daniel Craig as 007 agent. A few weeks earlier, the trailer of the film was released and it received great response from fans on social media. The film, co-starring Rami Malek, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, Ana De Armas and Léa Seydoux, is set to release in April 2020.

There's no victory in making Bond films, says filmmaker Sam Mendes

Four years after wrapping up his second James Bond film, Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes is back, this time on the front lines of World War One in '1917',&nbsp;an ambitious drama inspired by his grandfather's experiences. 
 
Set during a single day in April 1917, the film, presented as a sweeping continuous shot, follows two young British soldiers, Blake and Schofield, who are sent as messengers across enemy territory to stop a dawn attack on retreating German soldiers. 
 
The retreat is actually a trap, and with communications down, the duo are the only hope of saving hundreds of British soldiers from death, one of whom is Blake's brother. 
 
"My grandfather fought in the war between 1916 and 1918 and he told us many stories that stayed with me to this day," Mendes told Reuters at the film's London world premiere on Wednesday, attended by Prince Charles and his wife Camilla. 
 
"It's not about my grandfather but it's inspired by my grandfather. He told us one story about carrying a single message across no man's land and that little image kept pulling at me and it wouldn't let me go."

&nbsp;<img alt="prince charles" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62121954-554a-4cf3-9fe9-1566ee17156a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2899%29.jpg" /> 
 
Known for 'American Beauty'&nbsp;and 'Revolutionary Road',&nbsp;Mendes&nbsp;last major features films were Bond movies 'Skyfall'&nbsp;and 'Spectre'. 
 
"Even though this was ambitious and tiring in its own way, it's not nearly as ambitious as shooting on five continents and 20 cameras and all that stuff that goes with Bond," he said. 
 
"Even though there were hundreds of people, it was about a war, only one camera, two central characters, and a single linear narrative and just one two-hour period in real-time of one day in 1917, it felt like a holiday compared to Bond." 
 
The cast, including Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Andrew Scott, is led by two lesser-known names: George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman, who play Schofield and Blake, respectively. 
 
"I didn't know a lot about the First World War before I started this project so it was a big eye-opener," Chapman said. "It's important that people should remember those that fought in the war ... I had a lot of reality checks every single day." 
 
Reviews have mostly been positive, with critics praising the ambitious storytelling technique in which the camera follows the protagonists as if in one take a challenge for the cast. 
 
"When you're doing a 10-minute scene and you make a mistake in minute seven, it's really hard, you've got to start again even though you've done stuff you're quite pleased with," Scott said. "It's like walking a tightrope really."

Four years after wrapping up his second James Bond film, Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes is back, this time on the front lines of World War One in '1917', an ambitious drama inspired by his grandfather's experiences.

Four years after wrapping up his second James Bond film, Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes is back, this time on the front lines of World War One in '1917', an ambitious drama inspired by his grandfather's experiences. Set during a single day in April 1917, the film, presented as a sweeping continuous shot, follows two young British soldiers, Blake and Schofield, who are sent as messengers across enemy territory to stop a dawn attack on retreating German soldiers. The retreat is actually a trap, and with communications down, the duo are the only hope of saving hundreds of British soldiers from death, one of whom is Blake's brother. "My grandfather fought in the war between 1916 and 1918 and he told us many stories that stayed with me to this day," Mendes told Reuters at the film's London world premiere on Wednesday, attended by Prince Charles and his wife Camilla. "It's not about my grandfather but it's inspired by my grandfather. He told us one story about carrying a single message across no man's land and that little image kept pulling at me and it wouldn't let me go." Known for 'American Beauty' and 'Revolutionary Road', Mendes last major features films were Bond movies 'Skyfall' and 'Spectre'. "Even though this was ambitious and tiring in its own way, it's not nearly as ambitious as shooting on five continents and 20 cameras and all that stuff that goes with Bond," he said. "Even though there were hundreds of people, it was about a war, only one camera, two central characters, and a single linear narrative and just one two-hour period in real-time of one day in 1917, it felt like a holiday compared to Bond." The cast, including Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Andrew Scott, is led by two lesser-known names: George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman, who play Schofield and Blake, respectively. "I didn't know a lot about the First World War before I started this project so it was a big eye-opener," Chapman said. "It's important that people should remember those that fought in the war ... I had a lot of reality checks every single day." Reviews have mostly been positive, with critics praising the ambitious storytelling technique in which the camera follows the protagonists as if in one take a challenge for the cast. "When you're doing a 10-minute scene and you make a mistake in minute seven, it's really hard, you've got to start again even though you've done stuff you're quite pleased with," Scott said. "It's like walking a tightrope really."

Inspired by grandfather, 'Bond' director Sam Mendes returns with tense war film '1917'

Skyfall director Sam Mendes’ World War I drama film titled ‘1917’ will release on December 25, 2019.

‘1917’ will open in limited release on Christmas Day then go wide two weeks later on January 10, 2020, according to variety.com.

The cast includes George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman.

The film will be produced by Steven Spielberg's Amblin Partners through its DreamWorks Pictures brand. Mendes wrote the script with Krysty Wilson-Cairns, and will direct and produce the film.

Pippa Harris, Mendes' partner at Neal Street Productions, will also produce it with Jayne-Ann Tenggren and Callum McDougall.

‘1917’ marks a reunion for Mendes and DreamWorks. The director won an Oscar for his first feature, 1999's ‘American Beauty’ and also directed ‘Road to Perdition’ and ‘Revolutionary Road’ for DreamWorks.

Skyfall director Sam Mendes’ World War I drama film titled ‘1917’ will release on December 25, 2019. ‘1917’ will open in limited release on Christmas Day then go wide two weeks later on January 10, 2020, according to variety.

Skyfall director Sam Mendes’ World War I drama film titled ‘1917’ will release on December 25, 2019. ‘1917’ will open in limited release on Christmas Day then go wide two weeks later on January 10, 2020, according to variety.com. The cast includes George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman. The film will be produced by Steven Spielberg's Amblin Partners through its DreamWorks Pictures brand. Mendes wrote the script with Krysty Wilson-Cairns, and will direct and produce the film. Pippa Harris, Mendes' partner at Neal Street Productions, will also produce it with Jayne-Ann Tenggren and Callum McDougall. ‘1917’ marks a reunion for Mendes and DreamWorks. The director won an Oscar for his first feature, 1999's ‘American Beauty’ and also directed ‘Road to Perdition’ and ‘Revolutionary Road’ for DreamWorks.

Sam Mendes' World War I drama '1917' to release in 2019

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