Benediction: The Enigmatic Life of Siegfried Sassoon
Step into the captivating world of Siegfried Sassoon, a soldier, and poet, beautifully portrayed by Jack Lowden in “Benediction.” Directed by the acclaimed Terence Davies, this film masterfully blends anguish and humor as it delves into the life of an iconic poet haunted by the horrors of World War I. Sassoon’s evocative writings echo through the film, paired with poignant archival footage that brings his words to life.
A Surprising Dose of Wit in Terence Davies’ Films
Terence Davies, known for his melancholic films, surprises audiences with a refreshing dose of sparkling wit in “Benediction.” Following his previous work, “A Quiet Passion,” which explored Emily Dickinson’s morbid world with humor, Davies now turns to Sassoon, a British wordsmith with a cutting way of expressing himself. The film beautifully captures Sassoon’s gift for words while shedding light on the sorrow that lies behind them.
Siegfried Sassoon: The Voice of a Devastated Generation
Jack Lowden’s portrayal of Siegfried Sassoon is nothing short of extraordinary. As “Benediction” unfolds, we witness Sassoon’s transformation from a decorated war veteran to a courageous conscientious objector. His writing becomes the voice of a generation devastated by the war, with Davies ingeniously weaving snippets of Sassoon’s work into the film, enhancing its emotional impact.
Jazz-Age London: A World of Contrasts
While Sassoon’s writing reflected despair, his life wasn’t without moments of levity. The film offers a glimpse into Jazz-Age London, a world of bright young things bed-hopping and trading witty insults. Among them is the dashing Ivor Novello, portrayed by Jeremy Irvine, who becomes a significant figure in Sassoon’s life, leaving him heartbroken.
A Superb Balance of Charm and Moral Exhaustion
Jack Lowden brings Sassoon’s character to life, flawlessly balancing his quick-witted charm with a profound sense of moral exhaustion. As Sassoon defends himself with intelligence and humor, we witness the Roaring Twenties as a time of grand distraction, a collective denial of the war’s devastating toll. The film’s occasional flash-forwards to Sassoon’s later years, portrayed by the talented Peter Capaldi, add depth to the character’s journey.
The Heartfelt Tribute to an Extraordinary Poet
“Benediction” navigates the pitfalls of the biopic genre with grace, offering a moving tribute to Siegfried Sassoon’s complex personality. Terence Davies captures the essence of the poet’s anguished eloquence and his playful gadfly repartee, painting a multifaceted portrait of the man behind the words.
Conclusion: A Must-Watch Film for Poetry and History Enthusiasts
In “Benediction,” Terence Davies finds a perfect balance between sorrow and hilariously withering wit, crafting some of the most captivating dialogue in his estimable career. Jack Lowden’s impeccable performance, combined with Davies’ directorial brilliance, makes “Benediction” a must-watch for poetry and history enthusiasts alike. Prepare to be enthralled by this poignant and enchanting exploration of Siegfried Sassoon’s life and work. Release date: May 20, 2022.
