Steve McQueen’s new film ‘Blitz’ draws audiences into the terrifying reality of the London bombings, all seen through the innocent eyes of a nine-year-old boy. While conducting research for his ‘Small Axe’ series, McQueen came across an old, faded photograph depicting a young Black boy clutching a suitcase while fleeing London with other schoolchildren. This image sparked a desire in McQueen to uncover the story behind that child, inspiring him in the creation of ‘Blitz’, a film set during the harrowing days of 1940 when London was under relentless attack from Hitler’s Luftwaffe.
In contrast to typical portrayals of World War II, ‘Blitz’ seeks to offer a genuine representation of characters living through that time. McQueen, known for his work on ’12 Years a Slave’, collaborates with Lammas Park, Working Title, and New Regency to bring this narrative to life, with its world premiere scheduled for October 9 at the BFI London Film Festival.
The film uniquely captures the struggle and resilience of those who lived through what is known as the Blitz, departing from the stereotypical depictions of stiff-upper-lip British resolve seen in other war films. Instead, McQueen populates ‘Blitz’ with authentic characters based on real individuals, such as air-raid wardens and Underground shelter managers, informed by his experiences as an official war artist in Iraq.
Central to the film is George, portrayed by newcomer Elliott Heffernan. McQueen was deeply impressed with Heffernan’s genuine depiction of childhood. As the narrative unfolds, George’s experience reflects both the chaos of war and the sense of community that emerged in its wake. McQueen’s poignant observation about the effects of war on a child captures the emotional depth of the film: a child’s perspective in such upheaval is amplified, leading to profound implications.
George’s mother, Rita, is played by Saoirse Ronan, who embodies a nurturing but resilient spirit navigating the struggles of wartime life while raising her son in a shared family home. Ronan’s character, alongside the film’s young actors, required extensive preparation to realistically portray children of that era, devoid of modern technology and influenced by the social mores of the time.
The production emphasized authenticity in every detail, from the period-appropriate language to the set designs that reflect the bombed landscapes of London. McQueen took special care to convey the threats of war, impacting how his actors performed. Conversations about the nature of war were vital, particularly to guide Heffernan through the complexities of the story.
More than just a tale of survival, ‘Blitz’ dives into issues of race, identity, and community. A significant character, Ife, played by Benjamin Clémentine, guides George through his struggles with racial identity, providing a poignant commentary on the experiences of Black children in wartime Britain. Through George’s journey, McQueen explores the impact of love and solidarity amid chaos.
The film presents a mix of harsh realities and moments of levity, showing how communities came together during the war. McQueen discusses the role of women in wartime, emphasizing how their contributions were critical, and he illustrates this through Ronan’s character, who participates in war efforts in unexpected ways.
McQueen also highlights the spirit of resilience among Londoners during the Blitz, illustrated by characters who organized their communities during perilous times. By examining real-life figures who emerged as leaders within their neighborhoods, McQueen paints a picture of strength and unity forged under the direst conditions.
‘Blitz’ is not just a reflection of historical events; it is a thrilling cinematic experience. McQueen desires the audience to find entertainment in the film, while also confronting the realities of its themes. His storytelling is akin to a dark fairy tale; through George’s trials, viewers witness the complexities of innocence lost amid war’s tribulations.
In summary, Steve McQueen’s ‘Blitz’ promises to be more than just another war film. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit during one of history’s darkest times, providing audiences with a poignant narrative and powerful visuals that resonate long after the credits roll.