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War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme 2014

★ 9.51 votes89 min📅 2014-11-15

Dive into the harrowing yet poetic heart of World War I's most infamous battle through *War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme (2014)*, a compelling documentary directed by Sebastian Barfield.

Director: Sebastian Barfield

Cast

Michael Sheen
Michael Sheen
Narrator (voice)
Peter Barton
Himself - First World War Historian
Max Egremont
Himself - Biographer, Siegfried Sassoon
Christophe Fricker
Himself - Literary Historian
John Garth
Himself - Author, Tolkien and the Great War
William Graves
Himself - Son of Robert Graves
Jean Moorcroft Wilson
Herself - Biographer, Siegfried Sassoon
Paul O'Prey
Himself - Editor, Selected Poems: Robert Graves
Jonathon Riley
Himself - Royal Welch Fusiliers
Jon Stallworthy
Himself - Editor, The Oxford Book of War Poetry

Frequently Asked Questions

What is War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme (2014) about?

This documentary explores the literary contributions of the poets and writers who fought in the 1916 Battle of the Somme, one of World War I's deadliest conflicts. Through their poetry and prose, it captures the raw emotions and stark realities of trench warfare.

Who directed War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme?

Sebastian Barfield directed this powerful documentary, blending historical footage with poetic narration to honor the soldier-poets of the Somme.

Who stars in War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme?

The documentary features Michael Sheen as the narrator, alongside Peter Barton, Max Egremont, Christophe Fricker, and John Garth, who provide historical and literary context.

Is War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme (2014) worth watching?

If you appreciate history, poetry, or war documentaries with a literary twist, *War of Words* is a must-watch. Its focus on the Somme's poetic legacy offers a fresh and moving perspective on a pivotal moment in WWI.

How long is War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme?

The documentary runs for 89 minutes.

About War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme (2014) — A Documentary Tapestry of War and Words

Dive into the harrowing yet poetic heart of World War I's most infamous battle through *War of Words: Soldier-Poets of the Somme (2014)*, a compelling documentary directed by Sebastian Barfield. Narrated by the eloquent Michael Sheen, this film shines a light on the remarkable literary legacy left by the poets and writers who fought in the 1916 Battle of the Somme. Among them were literary giants like Siegfried Sassoon, Robert Graves, and David Jones, whose words captured the brutal reality and emotional depth of trench warfare.

This documentary blends history and artistry, immersing viewers in the trenches through archival footage and moving readings. It's more than a war story—it's a tribute to the power of words in the face of unimaginable horror. With a blend of historical insight and poetic reflection, *War of Words* offers a unique perspective on the Somme, revealing how art endured where so much else was destroyed.