You’d think that every story to be told about World War II would have been told by now. But the new film by Anthony Maras excavates a fascinating, little-known episode involving the preparations for D-Day and the all-important weather forecast that would determine the success or failure of the invasion. Featuring an award-worthy performance by Andrew Scott in the lead role and solid supporting turns by Brendan Fraser, Kerry Condon and Chris Messina, Pressure lives up to its title with its expert ratcheting up of sustained tension.
Based on an acclaimed stage play by David Haig, the film is set in the 72 hours leading up to D-Day. The story begins with the arrival to the Allied Headquarters at the historic 19th-century manor Southwick House of Scottish meteorologist Dr. James Stagg (Scott), who had been assigned to head up the weather forecasting team for the invasion. Although proud of his new position, he’s not particularly happy to be here, since his pregnant wife Liz (Tamsin Topolski) is on the verge of giving birth.
Pressure
The Bottom Line
Weather forecasting makes for a surprisingly edge-of-your-seat thriller.
