Steve McQueen’s Blitz is not just another World War II movie—it’s a groundbreaking exploration of untold stories from wartime London. Premiering in select theaters on November 1, 2024, and available for streaming on Apple TV+ from November 22, 2024, the film shifts its focus from soldiers to the everyday heroes who endured the German bombing campaign in London: women, children, immigrants, and people of color.
With a stellar cast led by Saoirse Ronan and newcomer Elliott Heffernan, Blitz brings a fresh and emotionally resonant perspective to a well-trodden genre.
A Story Rooted in Humanity
The inspiration for Blitz came from a single, striking photograph—a young Black boy, standing at a railway station, ready to be evacuated. That image sparked the creation of George, a biracial child who becomes the heart of this story.
Elliott Heffernan, making his debut as George, delivers a performance that has captivated critics and audiences alike. Opposite him is the always-brilliant Saoirse Ronan, who plays his mother, Rita. Their bond is tender and raw, and their journey to reunite forms the emotional core of the film.
McQueen explains it best:
“It’s a journey of discovery for this young boy, seeing the world through his eyes. What are we doing? That question was urgent then, and it feels even more urgent now.”
Saoirse Ronan and Elliott Heffernan Anchor the Cast
Saoirse Ronan, known for her standout performances in Lady Bird and Little Women, once again proves her versatility in Blitz. As Rita, she portrays a mother fighting to keep her family intact while dealing with the devastation around her.
Then there’s Elliott Heffernan, whose breakout role as George has been widely praised for its depth and maturity. Critics have lauded his ability to convey innocence and resilience, with McQueen describing him as having a “silent movie quality.” His performance is one you won’t forget.
The film also features a richly diverse supporting cast, including Mickey Davies, representing the multiculturalism of wartime London—a refreshing change from the predominantly white and male WWII narratives we’ve grown accustomed to.
What Sets Blitz Apart?
- Historical Accuracy and Realism:
McQueen’s commitment to authenticity is evident in every frame. From the meticulously recreated 1940s London streets to the characters’ costumes, Blitz immerses viewers in the era. Production designer Adam Stockhausen brought iconic locations like the Café de Paris and a flooded tube station to life, while costume designer Jacqueline Durran used textured fabrics like tweed to add depth and realism. - Representation and Diversity:
Unlike many WWII films, Blitz highlights the contributions of women, immigrants, and people of color. McQueen emphasizes:
“This isn’t just about men in khakis fighting in France. Women were the emotional and physical backbone of the country. They evacuated children, cared for elderly parents, and worked in ammunition factories.” - Elliott Heffernan’s Debut:
His portrayal of George has made him one to watch, with critics noting his ability to balance innocence with profound emotional depth. - Critical Acclaim:
With a Metascore of 71 on IMDb, Blitz has garnered praise for its nuanced storytelling and fresh perspective on WWII.
Blitz Movie Plot: A Unique Perspective on WWII
The story centers on George, a biracial boy separated from his mother during the chaos of the Blitz. Through his eyes, the film explores the resilience and humanity of those left behind. Opposite George is his mother Rita, played by Ronan, whose journey to reunite with her son adds emotional weight to the narrative.
While the backdrop is historical, the themes feel strikingly relevant. McQueen notes:
“People weren’t just fighting the Nazis—they were fighting themselves. That tension was urgent then, and it feels even more urgent today.”
Behind the Scenes of Blitz
The production design and costume work in Blitz are nothing short of extraordinary:
- Authentic Sets Over CGI: Production designer Adam Stockhausen opted for real sets, creating an immersive environment that brings 1940s London to life.
- Meticulous Costumes: Jacqueline Durran’s designs reflect the individuality of each character, capturing the era’s essence with incredible detail.
These elements, paired with McQueen’s direction, make Blitz a visual and emotional masterpiece.
Why You Should Watch Blitz
Whether you’re a fan of Steve McQueen’s work or simply looking for something new in the war movie genre, Blitz delivers. It’s a story about resilience, family, and identity, told with breathtaking visuals and unforgettable performances.
For me, what stands out most is how the film feels both intimate and epic. McQueen’s ability to bring untold stories to the forefront makes Blitz a must-watch. It’s not just a movie; it’s a reminder of the strength and humanity that shines even in the darkest times.
Where to Watch Blitz Movie
Blitz is now playing in select theaters and streaming on Apple TV+.
Image courtesy of Apple Studios, Lammas Park, New Regency Productions, Working Title Films, and Apple TV+
FAQ:
1. When was Steve McQueen’s Blitz released?
Blitz premiered in select theaters on November 1, 2024, and became available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting November 22, 2024.
2. What is Steve McQueen’s Blitz about?
Blitz is a WWII drama that tells the story of George, a biracial boy navigating wartime London during the German bombing campaign. Directed by Steve McQueen, the film highlights the untold stories of women, immigrants, and people of color who held British society together during the war.
3. Who stars in Blitz?
The film features Saoirse Ronan as Rita, George’s mother, and newcomer Elliott Heffernan as George. The cast also includes Mickey Davies and other talents representing the diverse multiculturalism of 1940s London.
4. Where can I watch Blitz?
Blitz is available for streaming exclusively on Apple TV+. You can also check if it’s playing in select theaters near you.
5. How accurate is Blitz in portraying wartime London?
Steve McQueen emphasized historical accuracy in Blitz. With production design by Adam Stockhausen and costumes by Jacqueline Durran, the film authentically recreates 1940s London, from iconic locations like the Café de Paris to the clothing of the era.
6. What makes Blitz different from other WWII movies?
Unlike many WWII films focused on soldiers, Blitz highlights the lives of women, children, and immigrants during the London Blitz. The film also explores themes of resilience, identity, and the hidden struggles of ordinary people.
7. Is Blitz based on real events?
While Blitz is not a direct adaptation of specific historical events, it draws heavily from real-life experiences during WWII. McQueen’s inspiration came from a photograph of a young Black boy during the evacuation, making the story feel both personal and universal.
Mohit Singhania is a passionate film enthusiast and the creator of CinematicJunction.com, a platform dedicated to exploring the world of movies and web series.
With a commitment to delivering original, high-quality content, Mohit combines his love for storytelling with sharp insights into the entertainment industry. When he’s not writing, you can find him binge-watching the latest series or diving deep into the art of filmmaking.
Stay tuned to Cinematic Junction for your daily dose of cinematic trends, reviews, and more!
