Film Review - Benediction
Images courtesy of Rialto Distribution.
Terence Davies tackles the life of First World War poet Siegfried Sassoon in his new film Benediction. Sassoon was a complicated man who after being awarded for his bravery in the First World War, became a vocal critic of the continuation of war. Sassoon’s experience on the Western Front inspired his haunting poetry which led to him being one of the leading war poets of the era. Davies explores Sassoon’s life as a troubled man delving into his experience coming to terms with his sexuality, as well as his search for salvation, peace and self acceptance.
Davies creates an experience which isn’t easy. The turbulence of Sassoon’s internal torture is deeply saddening and the film is palpable with how it explores this. Davies avoids the birth to death trope of a biographical film and instead ruminates on loss and failure by focusing in on particular moments in Sassoon's life, particularly his relationships. Davies’ poetic approach to Sassoon’s life renders the universal experiences explored both comforting and unpleasant. The audience is confronted not only with the meticulously acted scenes, but also found footage and imagery of war as well as readings of poetry which contextualises and adds to the haunting tone of the film.
The performances in Benediction, while at times fleeting, are a distinct highlight. Jack Lowden anchors the film, delivering an endlessly complex performance as Sassoon. His presence and detail is magnetic and gifts the audience with a direct access point to connecting with Sassoon. Lowden is flanked by a myriad of rich performances. In particular, Calam Lynch’s performance as Stephen Tennant doesn’t miss a beat and is absolutely electric. The colour and excitement of the contrasting characters eases the deep torment explored in the film as audiences get to witness some undeniably striking performances.
Benediction feels like an open wound which never heals. The film will make you uncomfortable with the sadness and melancholy in which it firmly sits but within that a tragic beauty can be found as the wonder and complexity of Sassoon's life is poetically displayed. It is this purposeful tonal choice by Davies which underpins the experiences of Sassoon and requires the audience to respond physiologically. Biographical films can at times garner the need to intellectualise and dissect the life of the individual and the film itself, Benediction is different. Benediction is meant to be felt.
Benediction is screening in select cinemas from Thursday, June 9th. For tickets and more info, click here.