The First 9 Minutes of 1917 (in One Unbroken Shot) | Own now on Digital, 3/24 on Blu-ray & DVD

Summary

In a tense military setting, soldiers Blake and Schofield discuss a critical mission to warn their battalion of an impending attack that could lead to a devastating loss of life, including Blake's brother. As they navigate their fears and frustrations over insufficient supplies and the chaos of war, the urgency of their orders weighs heavily on them. The scene highlights themes of brotherhood, duty, and the tragic consequences of conflict, as the soldiers must overcome their uncertainties and act swiftly to save lives.

Takeaways

• 😀 The characters are in a tense military situation, awaiting important news.
• 😟 There is frustration and hunger among the soldiers due to a lack of food.
• 🕒 Time is critical as the soldiers must deliver an urgent message to Colonel Mackenzie.
• 📜 The mission is to prevent a potentially disastrous attack on German lines.
• ⚠️ The second battalion is unaware of the enemy's fortified position.
• 🚫 Communication lines have been cut, complicating their ability to relay information.
• 💔 Personal stakes are high for the protagonist, whose brother is among the soldiers at risk.
• 🚶‍♂️ The journey involves navigating dangerous terrain, specifically no man's land.
• 🤔 There is debate among the soldiers about the best approach to complete the mission.
• 💡 They are equipped with essential supplies, including grenades, to aid in their mission.

Q & A

What is the main task assigned to the characters in the script?

The main task is for the characters, Lance Corporals Blake and Scofield, to deliver a critical message to Colonel Mackenzie, instructing him to call off an imminent attack that could result in heavy casualties.

Why is the message to Colonel Mackenzie considered urgent?

The message is urgent because there are updated intelligence reports indicating that the enemy has set up new, strong defenses, and proceeding with the attack could lead to a massacre of 1600 men, including Blake's brother.

What obstacle do Blake and Scofield face in delivering the message?

They face several obstacles, including the enemy having cut all telephone lines, meaning they cannot communicate with the second battalion about the updated threat.

What specific information does the message contain?

The message contains a direct order for Colonel Mackenzie to cancel the planned attack based on new intelligence regarding enemy fortifications and defenses.

How do Blake and Scofield plan to navigate to their destination?

They plan to navigate using a map and are instructed to follow specific routes, including traveling along the front line until they reach Major Stevenson at the short span of no-man's land.

What does the dialogue suggest about the relationship between Blake and Scofield?

The dialogue suggests a close relationship between Blake and Scofield, with Blake particularly concerned for the safety of his brother, which motivates him to undertake the dangerous mission.

What emotional tone is present in the conversation among the characters?

The emotional tone is tense and anxious, as the characters express their fears about the mission and the potential for loss of life, especially regarding Blake's brother.

What do the characters imply about the military command's previous expectations?

The characters imply that military command had previously assured them that they would be home by Christmas, indicating a stark contrast to the grim reality they now face.

How does the mention of 'no-man's land' contribute to the script's atmosphere?

The mention of 'no-man's land' adds to the atmosphere of danger and uncertainty, emphasizing the perilous situation Blake and Scofield are about to enter and the risks involved in their mission.

What does the dialogue reveal about the characters' experiences in war?

The dialogue reveals that the characters have experienced trauma and loss in war, as Scofield references a past incident that did not end well, indicating a deep-seated fear of the consequences of their current mission.