Blitz (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“Blitz,” the 2024 historical drama directed by Steve McQueen, takes audiences on a haunting journey through one of the most devastating periods of World War II — the Blitz of London in 1940. Known for his powerful storytelling in films like 12 Years a Slave and Small Axe, McQueen revisits history with his signature intensity, focusing on the human drama amidst chaos. Starring Saoirse Ronan, Harris Dickinson, and Benjamin Clémentine, “Blitz” brings to life the struggle of ordinary Londoners during the German bombing campaign that ravaged the city for eight months. This article reviews the film and provides information on where to stream it online.
Plot Summary
“Blitz” begins in the early days of World War II when London was under relentless attack by the German Luftwaffe. McQueen’s film focuses on the Hanway family: Rita (Saoirse Ronan), a factory worker and mother of a biracial son, George (Elliott Heffernan), and her father, Gerald (Paul Weller). Rita, like many others, is trying to survive while protecting her son, who is sent to the countryside for safety. However, George’s journey takes a dramatic turn when he decides to return to London, leading him on an odyssey through war-torn England.
Rita’s world, meanwhile, is torn apart by the news of George’s disappearance. As she copes with the demands of factory life and volunteering at local shelters, she’s haunted by memories of George’s father, Marcus (CJ Beckford), a Black man who faced racial discrimination and deportation. Through Rita and George’s intertwined stories, McQueen captures the devastating impact of war on family, identity, and community.
Steve McQueen’s Direction and Cinematography
Steve McQueen, known for his unique cinematic style, creates a harrowing yet beautiful depiction of London under siege. The film opens with a visceral scene of firefighters battling an uncontrollable blaze, followed by haunting imagery of bombs falling from the sky. McQueen’s ability to blend chaos with quiet, introspective moments is a testament to his directorial prowess.
The cinematography by Yorick Le Saux is equally stunning, with the rich period details — from the dim, smoky interiors of underground shelters to the vibrant, war-torn streets of London. Le Saux captures the stark contrast between the city’s destruction and the resilience of its people. Rita’s bold red lipstick and coat pop against the muted tones of the devastated city, a visual representation of her defiance in the face of danger.
Performances
Saoirse Ronan delivers a standout performance as Rita, a mother torn between her duties at home and her desire to protect her son. Ronan’s portrayal of Rita is full of quiet strength and vulnerability, making her one of the most compelling characters in the film. George, played by Elliott Heffernan, is equally captivating, embodying a young boy forced to grow up quickly amid the chaos of war. His journey back to London is filled with moments of danger and heartbreak, making it one of the film’s emotional high points.
Benjamin Clémentine’s portrayal of Ife, a Nigerian soldier, adds depth to the film’s exploration of race and identity. His interactions with George highlight the racial tensions of the era, while his quiet strength offers a sense of hope amidst the destruction.
Historical and Social Context
While “Blitz” is a war film, it is primarily a human drama that explores themes of identity, resilience, and race. McQueen weaves in the experiences of Black British citizens during the war, a narrative often overlooked in historical dramas. George’s internal struggle with his racial identity and the prejudice his family faces add layers of complexity to the story, making “Blitz” not just a war film but a commentary on the social issues of the time.
The film also touches on class and privilege, showing how the wealthy continued to live their lives in relative comfort while the working class bore the brunt of the bombings. This contrast is highlighted in scenes where the rich dance in clubs while the streets burn, and the working-class families seek shelter in overcrowded, unsafe conditions.
Where to Watch “Blitz” Online
For viewers in America and worldwide, “Blitz” will be available for streaming on Apple TV Plus starting from November 22, 2024. As an Apple TV original, this film will be exclusive to the platform, making it accessible to subscribers of the service. Here’s a breakdown of how you can watch “Blitz” online:
- Apple TV Plus: The film will be available for streaming as part of Apple TV’s original content lineup. Subscribers can access the film via the Apple TV app on various devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices (like Roku and Fire Stick), and Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac).
- Purchase/Rental Options: While “Blitz” will initially be exclusive to Apple TV Plus, it’s possible that it may later become available for rent or purchase on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, Vudu, and iTunes. Keep an eye on these services for future availability.
For now, subscribing to Apple TV Plus is the only way to watch “Blitz” online, making it an essential streaming service for fans of historical dramas and McQueen’s work.
Conclusion
“Blitz” is a film that balances the devastation of war with the resilience of the human spirit. Steve McQueen’s direction, combined with stellar performances from Saoirse Ronan and Elliott Heffernan, makes this film a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and character-driven stories. The movie’s portrayal of London during the Blitz is both harrowing and hopeful, a testament to the endurance of ordinary people in extraordinary times.
As of November 22, 2024, “Blitz” will be available to stream exclusively on Apple TV Plus, offering viewers a chance to witness this powerful story of survival, resilience, and hope.
