Pressure Movie Review

A trial run, called “Exercise Tiger,” was done before D-Day. It didn’t go very well. It was a bloody, horrific scene. ​
Eisenhower was appalled at what he saw and decided then and there that his men would have to prepare more for what they were about to face. He will take credit for what happens, the final decision being, “Mine and mine alone.” Once saying so, he’ll have a hand in all preparations.

This film is about the 72 hours before D-Day, most importantly about the significance of a lead meteorologist. I never thought much about the role weather played in any war… just about how it might affect my daily life. This story has been a big story before, but told from this perspective, it will intrigue you.

General Dwight D. Eisenhower, played by Brendan Fraser, recently known for receiving an Academy Award for his performance in “The Whale,” and Captain James Stagg, played by Andrew Scott from “All of Us Strangers,” are working together to find the best time to launch a water and land attack on the beaches of Normandy during WWII. The biggest problem they’re having is which day to settle on. Tuesday, the 6^th of June, is what Stagg is suggesting. He’s having a hard time convincing Eisenhower and his other meteorologist, named Irving Krick, played by “The Mindy Project’s” Chris Messina, that he knew for certain the date should be the one he chose. Krick wanted to go on the 5^th, basing his verdict on past patterns and maps. He’s also not listening due to the fact that he wants to be the only stud in the barn. He ignores it when Stagg tells him of two brewing storms about to get in the way. Stagg wasn’t being heard, but if he didn’t eventually break through to them, the attack would prove fatal. He took the task of forecasting very seriously, and this was for history. But had to be trusted and understood as well, which seemed to be the hardest part of the job.

A day is agreed upon after a gap in the sky is acknowledged. You know the rest. It has been a while since we’ve seen a war picture this good. If you like this type of film, be sure not to miss it… on the big screen. “Pressure” has its tense moments, given to us by Fraser’s brutish Ike, who could be terrifying when frustrated. There’s a good pace, and I felt anxious at times.

The writing, directing, casting, acting, and production of this film altogether, were nearly flawless. Kerry Condon and Damian Lewis play key roles for which they are well-suited. Condon’s Kay Summersby, Eisenhower’s secretary and closest confidante, is terrific. You never once question her devotion during the film and are shown what an important role she played in Eisenhower’s life.