By Keith Walther | Rose Law Group Reporter
As familiar as you might already be with the D-Day invasion that turned the tide of World War II, you probably were not aware of how much meteorology played into the planning of this historical event. “Pressure” is the newest WWII movie that is based on the 2014 stage play of the same name and the true story of the hours leading up to the invasion and the extremely high stakes involved with the decision-making process. It may not be the sexiest story in this saturated genre, but it deserves recognition for bringing a unique perspective that is both informative and compelling.
It is only a few days before the largest amphibious invasion in the history of warfare and General Dwight Eisenhower (Brendan Fraser), Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery (Damian Lewis), and the other allied commanders need a clear weather forecast to ensure the troops are able to make landfall. Under extreme pressure to get it right, Group Captain James Stagg (Andrew Scott) must deliver unpopular news that could spell disaster for the allied invasion of Normandy. Millions of lives and the fate of WWII hangs in the balance with Stagg trying to find any glimmer of an opening amidst catastrophic storms while avoiding delays that could alert the Nazis to this massive invasion.
Do not go into this expecting another “Saving Private Ryan” depiction of D-Day, because that’s not what this film is. Director Anthony Maras may not be Steven Spielberg, but he’s no slouch either, debuting in 2018 with “Hotel Mumbai,” which was one of the best films of that year. This is his sophomore effort, and he once again tackles a true story, the likes of which haven’t really been conveyed previously via film. While this is not the action-packed, violent warfare that is usually depicted in WWII films, Maras generates a different kind of tension and suspense that engrosses audiences.
The title of the movie cleverly serves as a double meaning. One speaks to air pressure, which is a key contributing factor to weather forecasting. The other speaks of the incredible internal pressure these leaders faced with the highest stakes imaginable hinging on their decisions. Maras beautifully captures this stress from multiple angles. First, he imposes the ticking-clock, instantly ratcheting up the tension by imposing an impossible deadline for the main character to finalize an accurate forecast amidst scientific uncertainty. Then, he incorporates psychological conflict for this character as he is constantly questioned and contradicted by his peers and military leaders. As if this is not enough, the director includes a fictional subplot of the main character’s pregnant wife being in a recently bombed hospital to heighten the emotional duress while completing his forecast. Finally, Maras brings the tension to a boiling point with the crippling weight of leadership, showing General Eisenhower in the unenviable position of having to ultimately decide the potential fate of millions. Even the cinematography he employs of tight framing and claustrophobic shots contributes to the tension. All of these techniques not only enhance suspense and interest, but they also allow viewers the opportunity to witness this intense planning and preparation from these historical figures’ shoes.
It is quite easy for a dialogue driven dramatic thriller such as this to succumb to sluggish pacing, but Maras somehow avoids this. His storytelling is efficient and concise with a runtime of only one hour forty minutes, but it’s the human element he harnesses that livens the pace and supplies emotional investment. This coupled with the aforementioned intensity makes for a surprisingly brisk viewing experience.
Apart from Andrew Scott, the acting is a bit underwhelming, making this film feel like a lesser production. Oscar winner Brendan Fraser (“The Whale”) is simply ill-suited to portray the imposing figure of General Eisenhower. Despite his best efforts to exert leadership, power, confidence, and unshakable determination, he cannot hide the sweetness in his eyes and mouth, bringing a disingenuous vibe to his performance that undercuts his authenticity. Irish actor Scott, on the other hand, delivers a masterful performance. Initially, he presents his character in a stand-offish way with an insufferable ego accustomed to working alone. As he’s forced to work in this team environment, disliked by his peers and superiors, he believably displays how the stress slowly erodes his façade, subtly at first in his facial expressions and then more explosively later, successfully pushing viewers away only to reel them back in for the final act.
Like a cold front meeting a warm front, “Pressure” builds from the opening scene and does not let up until the credits roll. This is a uniquely informative and mesmerizing true WWII story of what occurred behind the scenes somewhat similar to “The Darkest Hour.” Even though Memorial Day is now in the rearview mirror, it’s never too late to remember and celebrate the courage and sacrifice of the people in the armed forces, and watching this movie is a satisfying way to do that.
This movie earns:
