In Blitz, Oscar-winning director Steve McQueen brings a visceral and poignant perspective to WWII, delving into the brutal reality of the Blitz and confronting racism amid chaos. Set in 1940 London, the film captures the relentless bombing campaign by Nazi Germany and highlights an often overlooked aspect in war films: the experiences of Black and biracial individuals. McQueen’s unflinching storytelling gives these marginalized voices the recognition they deserve.
A Mother & Son Torn Apart
The film opens with an intense scene—a chaotic rush to a London tube station as air raid sirens scream. Amid the chaos, McQueen introduces Rita (Saoirse Ronan) and her biracial son, George (Elliott Heffernan). With mounting pressure from her father Gerald (Paul Weller), Rita prepares to send George to safety in the countryside.
George’s separation from his mother is heart-wrenching, marked by his anger and feelings of abandonment. Almost immediately, he faces racial bullying, prompting him to make a daring decision to return home.
Navigating Racism Amid War
As the narrative unfolds, Blitz parallels the struggles of George and Rita in their separate but equally perilous journeys. McQueen’s depiction of George’s encounters with strangers evokes a Dickensian feel, as the boy learns about human cruelty and kindness. Meanwhile, Rita’s story showcases the resilience of women working in munitions factories while facing societal judgment for her interracial family.
McQueen tackles the harsh realities of the time, emphasizing how racism persisted even under the shared threat of Nazi attacks. Rita’s character, despite enduring societal scorn, never wavers in her love for her son, making her journey to find him all the more compelling. Ronan’s performance captures this complexity, as she embodies both a fierce maternal determination and the guilt of letting her son go.
Uneven Pacing & Emotional Highs
While Blitz succeeds in its emotional storytelling, it suffers from pacing issues. The film alternates between intense action sequences and slower, meandering moments, creating a disjointed rhythm.
This is particularly noticeable as George’s journey back to his mother unfolds without a clear sense of the distance or challenges he faces. Additionally, several supporting characters make brief, impactful appearances but then vanish, leaving their arcs unresolved.
Watch Blitz (2024) – Trailer
Elliott Heffernan shines in his debut role, portraying George as a brave and introspective child confronting his identity amidst wartime chaos. His powerful interactions highlight the experiences of Black individuals who contributed to the war effort despite societal prejudice.
A Community’s Resilience
Despite its flaws, Blitz is a powerful exploration of courage, resilience, and the strength of community during Britain’s darkest days. McQueen’s film illustrates that even in times of extreme duress, people come together, transcending class and race to survive. While the narrative may falter in its pacing, its core message resonates deeply, reflecting the shared sacrifices and emotional turmoil of the era.
Blitz, produced by Apple Studios, Regency Enterprises, New Regency, and Working Title Films, will have a limited theatrical release on November 1st, followed by a streaming premiere on Apple TV+ on November 22nd.
