Darkest Hour

It's hard to believe that Winston Churchill, of all people, was ever so wracked with doubt. The presence of such a questionable dramatic element suggests this film is less biography and more a movie with a message. No doubt, in our uncertain age, it is elevating to be reminded that courage can be found--indeed, sometimes springs forth from--the bleakest of circumstances. That example is aided considerably by Gary Oldman's lead performance; the veteran actor so thoroughly inhabits his role that he is almost unrecognizable. It's good work, to be sure, and the result is mostly engrossing and entertaining, but you can't ever really put aside the idea that you're watching hagiography, not biography or history. That awareness may temper your viewing experience to slightly less than what it should be--but that's still more than good enough to win the moment, or the hour (or two).