Steve McQueen's Blitz Set for Theatrical Release

Steve McQueen's upcoming film, Blitz, set against the backdrop of the German bombing campaign during World War II, aims to present a more nuanced portrayal of wartime London, focusing on the experiences of a single working-class mother, Rita (Saoirse Ronan), and her mixed-race son, George. The film opens with intense, immersive soundscapes that reflect the chaos of the Blitz, and transitions to moments of stark silence, emphasizing the emotional impact of the destruction. Historian Joshua Levine, involved in the film's historical accuracy, notes McQueen's dedication to authentically portraying the era's challenges, including issues of race and the reality of looting amid devastation. Blitz will have a limited theatrical release on November 1 and stream on Apple TV+ starting November 22. The film is positioned as a poignant exploration of familial bonds amid the terror of aerial bombardments that claimed nearly 43,500 lives in London alone. As the film prepares for release, it invites comparisons to previous works like John Boorman's Hope and Glory, which also aimed to capture the spirit of resilience during the Blitz.