Amber Phillips
Updated on: October 13, 2024 10:07 am GMT
As Sir Steve McQueen prepares to debut his latest film “Blitz” at the BFI London Film Festival, audiences are getting a first glimpse into one of the darker chapters of World War II. While many are familiar with the overarching narratives of wartime, McQueen’s film uncovers a lesser-known tragedy that took place during the Blitz—the catastrophic disaster at the Bethnal Green tube station.
A Hidden Tragedy at Bethnal Green
Not many people, even in Britain, know about what happened at Bethnal Green on the evening of March 3, 1943. McQueen has expressed his shock upon discovering the story during his research for the film: “Not many people seem to know about what happened at Bethnal Green. I am very excited to be able to show these things to a British audience,” he said in an interview with the Observer.
The disaster took place amidst an air raid warning that took many people by surprise. As locals rushed into the half-finished tube station for safety, a sudden crush of bodies occurred. An estimated 173 people died, including 62 children, leading to what remains the deadliest incident on the Tube system during the Blitz.
A scene from Steve McQueen’s upcoming film “Blitz,” which highlights the perils faced during the London air bombardment in World War II.
This tragic event was largely kept under wraps by the government for years during and after the war, a decision motivated by the desire to maintain public morale. The Ministry of Home Security estimated that nearly 2,000 people were present in the station when the disaster occurred, demonstrating how fear deeply affected Londoners during this perilous time.
The Making of “Blitz”
In “Blitz,” McQueen explores the experiences of ordinary Londoners during this tumultuous period. Set against the backdrop of the London Blitz, the movie follows a young boy named George, portrayed by Elliott Heffernan. His mother, Rita, played by acclaimed actress Saoirse Ronan, attempts to send him away from the danger in London. However, as George finds himself amid chaos, the film chronicles his journey through a war-torn city.
Other prominent actors in the film include Kathy Burke, Stephen Graham, Hayley Squires, Harris Dickinson, and musician Paul Weller. Together, they bring to life the struggles and resilience of those trying to navigate a city under siege.
Filming Locations and Authenticity
To authentically depict wartime London, much of “Blitz” was filmed in Hull, which has recently gained attention in the film industry, earning the nickname “Hullywood.” The city served as a backdrop, with vintage red buses and 1940s posters transforming its streets to resemble the capital during the Blitz.
- Hull’s Old Town and Paragon railway station provide historical context.
- Extras from East Yorkshire added a localized touch to the film.
- McQueen previously worked on “12 Years a Slave,” showcasing his dedication to historical accuracy.
A Tribute to Resilience
McQueen aims to honor the spirit of Londoners who lived through this difficult time. “Blitz is a movie about Londoners. It honors the spirit of what and how Londoners endured during the Blitz,” he stated. The film seeks to tell the story of a working-class family facing the uncertainties and dangers of wartime London, emphasizing the everyday courage required to survive.
As the film prepares for its gala premiere on October 9, audiences can expect a gripping exploration of history. “Blitz” not only entertains but seeks to educate viewers on the profound impacts of war and the human spirit’s resilience. The film is set to hit UK cinemas on November 1, followed by a streaming release on Apple TV+ on November 22.
Reflections on Historical Memory
The story behind “Blitz” sheds light on the importance of historical memory, especially as new generations grow up distanced from the direct experiences of war. The film’s narrative intertwines personal trauma with collective memory, highlighting stories that deserve recognition but risk being forgotten. According to McQueen, telling these difficult histories is not merely an artistic outreach; instead, it’s a way to connect with shared human experiences.
The filming and storytelling approach McQueen undertakes in “Blitz” offers a powerful antidote to historical amnesia, revealing the often-untold tragedies that shaped a nation’s resolve. As McQueen asked rhetorically during his research, “How come I did not know about that?” it is through films like “Blitz” that future audiences will hopefully find answers and understand the depths of human endurance.
In Conclusion
“Blitz” shows how brave the people in the film were and highlights the hard work of its creators. The movie brings back important talks about events like the Bethnal Green disaster. Director McQueen wants us to remember the struggles people faced during wartime in London. As the movie gets closer to being released, people are excited not just for a great film but also to remember the stories that help us understand our history better.
