Throughout his career, British director Steve McQueen has consistently demonstrated his ambition – whether directing all five parts of Small Axe, venturing into blockbuster territory with Widows, or unflinchingly depicting American history in 12 Years A Slave. His latest project is another film set in the past, and it once again showcases his ability to work on a grand scale – get ready for Blitz, set during World War II amid the London Blitz, as the capital city is ravaged by enemy bombers.
At the center of the story is 9-year-old George (Elliott Heffernan), who is sent away by his mother Rita, played by Saoirse Ronan, to safety but ends up caught in the midst of the conflict as the city is engulfed in flames. Watch the trailer here: While numerous World War II films have been made in recent years, few have delved into the heart of the Blitz – and McQueen’s film, as its title suggests, aims to do just that, capturing the intense fire, fury, and chaos of the bombardment.
While Ronan is the prominent name in the cast, the film is set to focus on young Heffernan as George navigates the scorched landscape. The extensive cast also includes Harris Dickinson, Stephen Graham, Kathy Burke, Hayley Squires, and Paul Weller (yes, that Paul Weller) among the many names listed.
Since Blitz is set in London, it will have its world premiere there – it is scheduled to open the BFI London Film Festival on 9 October. Following its premiere, it will be released in UK cinemas from 1 November, with an Apple TV+ streaming launch on 22 November. Based on what we see in this trailer, Blitz appears to be a film that demands to be seen on the big screen.
