Pressure Review: A Sincere and Captivating D-Day Thriller Centers Around the Storm Report.

      Can a captivating film be created about weather prediction? "Pressure," directed by Anthony Maras, confirms this is indeed possible. The story unfolds just days before D-Day, with General Dwight D. Eisenhower (Brendan Fraser) in urgent need of a reliable forecast to ensure the operation proceeds as intended. The film opens with a stark depiction of the disastrous Operation Tiger, a D-Day training exercise that ended tragically just months prior, resulting in the deaths of numerous American soldiers due to friendly fire stemming from grave miscommunication. We see a resolute yet shaken Eisenhower, surrounded by British generals who think they could better lead the Allied Expeditionary Force (AEF) to success. Damian Lewis embodies this sentiment through his commanding portrayal of Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery, the leader of all D-Day ground forces.

      Andrew Scott portrays meteorologist James Stagg, who is recommended by Churchill himself for the forecasting task. As a result, Eisenhower's trusted American meteorologist Irving Krick (Chris Messina) finds himself in a secondary role to Stagg. When the time comes to present the weather predictions, the two men clash, forcing Eisenhower to decide whom he can rely on. This disagreement forms the crux of "Pressure." It's quite compelling that the film excels as it does, maintaining a rapid pace and featuring remarkably engaging supporting performances, particularly from Kerry Condon as Eisenhower’s personal secretary, Kay Summersby. Ultimately, "Pressure" skillfully explores the details of warfare: the internal conflicts, the rumors, the assumptions, the regrets—and of course, the weather! These factors are crucial and have significant impact.

      Scott plays Stagg with the demeanor of a lead character from one of Powell and Pressburger’s World War II films—reminiscent of David Farrar in "The Small Back Room." Stagg exudes confidence, is changeable, and can be hard to warm up to—until he isn’t, that is. Messina complements Scott perfectly, with his portrayal of Krick being the complete opposite, apart from the same level of confidence. He brings a joyful and charming essence to the role, making the best of his situation. Fraser’s portrayal of Eisenhower exudes bravado, yet the Oscar winner’s gentle, vulnerable expression reveals his underlying anxiety. At one moment, Eisenhower confesses, “When I close my eyes, everything I see is failure.” His performance is intriguingly distinctive, setting him apart from the rest of the cast, which seems to be a purposeful choice.

      Maras effectively utilizes limited sets, with nearly every scene set in a meeting room, aside from a particularly impactful sequence in a nearby church. Production designer Daniel Taylor deserves considerable acclaim for infusing each shot with a dynamic, immersive atmosphere of wartime planning and anxiety. Cinematographer Jamie Ramsay also does commendable work, creating effective contrasts within dark, smoke-filled rooms, although one might wish for even greater stylistic depth, perhaps adding a noir aesthetic to the interiors.

      "Pressure" stands out as a captivating, entertaining thriller reminiscent of a bygone era of studio films now primarily produced by mid-range companies like Focus Features. It also pays tribute to the professionals who diligently perform their roles. Too often, we elevate figures like Eisenhower to presidential status while neglecting those who contribute significantly to his success.

      "Pressure" will be released in theaters on Friday, May 29.