War Book

War Book is a thought-provoking and captivating political drama from 2014, helmed by acclaimed British director Tom Harper. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes Shaun Evans, Sophie Okonedo, and Ben Chaplin, the film is an intense exploration of the hypothetical measures that the British government could employ in the event of nuclear war.

Set in contemporary London over the span of three days, War Book plays out almost entirely within the confines of a drab, windowless government boardroom. This hauntingly claustrophobic atmosphere, bereft of any outside interference, is an effective device used by Harper, allowing the narrative to focus entirely on the escalating tension and conflict amongst the participants.

The story revolves around a group of nine civil servants, spearheaded by the notable performances of Evans, Okonedo, and Chaplin. Their characters are an eclectic mix of political advisors, Home Office representatives, and a Foreign Office spokesperson. They come together for a top-secret exercise, the 'War Book.' This War Book is part of a longstanding yet somber tradition dating back to the Cold War, acting as an intricate role-play simulation of a nuclear crisis.

The crux of the storyline lies in the momentous decisions that the characters are forced to debate and make within the realm of this simulation. The film portrays the spectrum of terrifying moral and ethical dilemmas that they face within the hypothetical scenario of a nuclear war. It examines the lengths that humanity could potentially go to, the rules it can bend, and the hard choices it will have to make to ensure survival during an apocalyptic war.

The film impressively navigates through a series of complex political issues and ideologies via the absorbing dialogue and increasingly heated exchanges amongst the characters. Their conversations are punctuated by rampant disagreement, bitter resentment, and profoundly philosophic conjecture. The film delves deep into the psyche of these characters, revealing their personal biases, the political motivations underlying their decisions, and the emotional toll that such a catastrophic event could warrant.

Shaun Evans delivers an impressive show as the hesitant and idealistic ‘John,’ making us feel the weight of the potential menace of nuclear war. Sophie Okonedo's skillful portrayal of ‘Maria,’ a character who is ethical yet torn between the political complications of her role, intensifies the moral complexities that drive the film. Ben Chaplin’s character ‘Gary,’ a cynical and pragmatic government official, provides the perfect foil to the more idealistic characters.

Despite its grim subject matter, War Book deftly employs moments of dark satire and humor, which work toward lightening the overall oppressive atmosphere of the film. These moments of respite are often found in the characters' sarcastic banter and the absurdity of some of their arguments given the simulated yet real impending doom.

While seemingly minimalist in its approach, the film still manages to create a palpable and unsettling sense of dread and urgency through its compelling dialogues and solid performances. The cinematography and the atmospheric score effectively mirror the tension-filled narrative and enhance the gripping portrayal of each character's emotional unpacking.

In essence, War Book is a provocative and chilling political drama that shines a spotlight on the cataclysmic scenarios that could occur in the event of nuclear warfare. It is a deeply engrossing spectacle that shows the audience a stark and discomforting view of the world on the brink of annihilation, through the interactions and decisions of a few untouched government servants in an enclosed boardroom.

While it is undoubtedly unsettling and stark, War Book is an essential film that forces viewers to confront the terrifying realities that government officials must prepare for and the enormous magnitude of decisions hanging in their hands. This film makes a valuable contribution to political cinema, effectively provoking thought and leaving an indelible impression on its viewers.