Testament of Youth (film)

Testament of Youth (film) POSTER

Testament of Youth is a British drama film based on the First World War memoir of the same name by Vera Brittain. The film is directed by James Kent and written by Juliette Towhidi. It stars Alicia Vikander as Vera Brittain, an independent young woman whose life is thrown into chaos by the onset of World War I. The cast also includes Kit Harington, Taron Egerton, Colin Morgan, and Emily Watson. Testament of Youth is a poignant story of love, war, and remembrance, based on the real-life experiences of Brittain, who postponed her studies at Oxford University to serve as a Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) nurse during the war.

Plot

The film follows Vera Brittain's journey from her life in pre-war England, through her wartime experiences as a nurse, to her post-war efforts as a writer and pacifist. After her brother Edward (Taron Egerton) and his friends, including her fiancé Roland Leighton (Kit Harington), enlist to fight in the war, Vera also decides to contribute to the war effort by leaving Oxford and becoming a VAD nurse. Her experiences nursing wounded soldiers in London, Malta, and France profoundly affect her views on war and lead her to write her memoir, Testament of Youth, as a testament to the lost generation.

Cast

• Alicia Vikander as Vera Brittain
• Kit Harington as Roland Leighton
• Taron Egerton as Edward Brittain
• Colin Morgan as Victor Richardson
• Emily Watson as Mrs. Brittain
• Dominic West as Mr. Brittain

Production

The film's production began in March 2014, with filming taking place in various locations across the United Kingdom, including Oxford and London. The filmmakers aimed to authentically recreate the era of World War I and Brittain's life, from the idyllic pre-war countryside to the stark realities of war hospitals.

Reception

Upon its release, Testament of Youth received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and particularly for Alicia Vikander's performance. Critics praised the film for its emotional depth, beautiful cinematography, and its faithful adaptation of Brittain's memoir. The film highlights the impact of war on a generation and the personal growth of a woman who lived through it, making it a significant contribution to the genre of war dramas.

Themes

The film explores themes of love, loss, and the futility of war. It also delves into the role of women during wartime, both on the home front and in direct service, showcasing the challenges and societal expectations they faced. Testament of Youth serves as a reminder of the personal and collective sacrifices made during World War I and the importance of remembering those who were lost.