Benediction (2022)

Review Team

4/5

Benediction, directed by Terence Davies, offers a thoughtful exploration of the life of Siegfried Sassoon, a poet whose experiences in World War I shaped not only his writing but also his identity. The film is a reflective piece that delves into Sassoon's disillusionment with the war and his struggl ... Show more >> Benediction, directed by Terence Davies, offers a thoughtful exploration of the life of Siegfried Sassoon, a poet whose experiences in World War I shaped not only his writing but also his identity. The film is a reflective piece that delves into Sassoon's disillusionment with the war and his struggles with his sexuality amidst the backdrop of early 20th-century British society. Davies’ direction is both sensitive and insightful, allowing the audience to connect deeply with Sassoon's emotional journey. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the era's aesthetic while enhancing the narrative's poignancy. Jack Lowden delivers a powerful performance as Sassoon, embodying the poet’s internal conflicts with grace and depth. Though the pacing may feel slow to some, the film's deliberate approach is rewarding, offering a rich tapestry of character and emotion. Overall, Benediction is a beautifully crafted film that resonates with anyone who has grappled with personal truth against societal pressures. Show less

Editor Team

3.5/5

Benediction is a film that dances delicately around the life of Siegfried Sassoon, and while it has its moments of brilliance, it sometimes feels like a gentle breeze rather than a storm. Terence Davies paints a portrait of Sassoon that is both vibrant and melancholic, exploring his war experiences ... Show more >> Benediction is a film that dances delicately around the life of Siegfried Sassoon, and while it has its moments of brilliance, it sometimes feels like a gentle breeze rather than a storm. Terence Davies paints a portrait of Sassoon that is both vibrant and melancholic, exploring his war experiences and tumultuous love life. The performances, particularly from Jack Lowden as Sassoon, are commendable, bringing a mix of vulnerability and strength to the role. However, the film can be slow, with long pauses that might test the patience of some viewers. It’s not a conventional war film; instead, it focuses on the emotional aftermath of conflict, which is an interesting angle but can feel less engaging at times. The lush cinematography and period details are remarkable, making it a visual treat. For those who appreciate character-driven narratives and historical dramas, Benediction offers a reflective experience, though it may not be for everyone. Show less