Journey’s End - Schools Screening

As we approach the end of the centenary commemorations for the First World War, we present the latest cinematic adaptation of R.C. Sherriff’s 1928 play Journey’s End, which remains, even 90 years on, a poignant, deeply affecting and intimate portrait of the bonds between soldiers in war. 

Barely out of school, a nervous but excited Raleigh (Asa Butterfield) arrives at the front in March 1918. A state of stalemate has existed for months, although a fresh German offensive is expected imminently. Battle-hardened veterans like Osborne (Paul Bettany) and Trotter (Stephen Graham) tolerate the young man’s naive enthusiasm, offering advice and guidance, while cook Mason (Toby Jones) tries his best to make the new arrival welcome. But Raleigh’s cheerful presence is deeply unsettling for his former schoolmate, now commanding officer, Stanhope (Sam Claflin); a man damaged by war, dependent on whisky and barely keeping things together as he prepares to lead his men to death or glory. 

Director Saul Dibb and screenwriter Simon Reade draw our attention to the everyday details of the claustrophobia of the trenches, building texture though sound design, bringing to life a world where death is a constant threat. The humour and loyalty with which these men go on, trying to survive the situation, shines through and makes the final moments all the more devastating when they come. As a  description, ‘quality British drama’ often gets glibly attached to television drama these days, but Journey’s End is a wonderful example of what that phrase truly means.

Dir: Saul Dibb
UK 2017 / 1h48m / 12A

We are open for school bookings from 11:00 on Thu 23 August until Fri 2 November (with priority booking at our Teachers Preview).

Please book early as many films sell out. To be certain of our assistance with your travel arrangements please book before Wed 26 September.

To book, please call DCA Box Office on 01382 432 444.