The Trench

Paul Nicholls in the 1999 movie, The TrenchI just watched The Trench, William Boyd’s 1999 Somme story set, entirely, in a 1916 trench in the hours before the Battle of the Somme. Although some may consider this film a little limited, I found it quite moving. Some reviews imply it’s a little stereotypical in its characterisation but the ensemble works well and there are some good performances. Paul Nicholls stars and is rather good – despite the somewhat limited role. While the end is entirely known it’s still a worthwhile ninety minutes. I found myself relieved that I wasn’t put in that position, it surely is one of the most tragic moments in British war history. You may know the end but it’s a thought-provoking film.

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