Testament of Youth

If Director James Kent’s Testament of Youth doesn’t give you an appreciation for the horror and futility of war, at least it will give you an appreciation for the outstanding talent of Alicia Vikander, who plays the starring role of author Vera Brittain.

Ms. Vikander vaults herself into the pantheon of the greats with her clean and true performance.  It’s her genuineness that is the mark of a great actor.  Ex Machina was just a preview of her ability.

Given that adaption of a story that takes place over a span of 4 years is difficult, Writer Julliette Towhidi has done an admirable job, but, again, this film wouldn’t have the impact it does without Alicia Vikander’s brilliance.

The story is of a headstrong young woman, who succeeds in getting into Oxford right before the start of World War I, but turns to becoming a nurse of wounded soldiers, eventually, at the Front in France.

Be aware that some of the scenes are harrowing with Cinematographer Rob Hardy, at one point, echoing the chilling scene of the wounded in Gone With the Wind.

The cast is superb, especially Taron Egerton (Kingsmen: The Secret Service), who plays Vera’s brother and Kit Harington (Game of Thrones), who plays her eventual fiancé.   

I give Testament of Youth a 4 out of 5.