The Strategic Removal of a Key Scene in Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk

In the critically acclaimed film Dunkirk (2017), director Christopher Nolan has made a conscious choice to omit a specific scene involving Cillian Murphy's character, the shivering soldier, being attacked while aboard the boat. This decision is a testament to Nolan's masterful storytelling, aligning with his non-linear approach that weaves together multiple perspectives.

Why the Omission?

Theomission of this scene is not arbitrary but rather a strategic choice that enhances the overall narrative experience. By not explicitly showing the attack, Nolan allows the audience to infer the chaos and horror through the characters' reactions and the general atmosphere of the film. This storytelling technique maintains a focus on the immediate, human experiences of survival and trauma, rather than relying on traditional battle scenes.

Achieving Tension and Psychological Impact

The attack on Cillian Murphy's character is implied through the chaos and psychological tension that permeates the film. The director skillfully shifts the focus to the suspense and the emotional resonance rather than detailing every action. This approach is consistent with Nolan's broader style, which often prioritizes the abstract over the concrete, the psychological over the physical.

The Rule of Three

The film maintains a specific narrative structure known as the Rule of Three. This means the story is presented from three distinct perspectives: that of a man on land, a man on the sea, and a man in the air. These perspectives are exemplified by the characters of Tommy (Fionn Whitehead), Peter (Fionn Whitehead's real name, assuming it is the same), and Farrier (Tom Hardy). Additional characters, such as Commander Bolton (Kenneth Branagh), provide necessary exposition and act as a narrator/chorus.

Adding a fourth perspective, such as a fourth focus on Murphy's character while he is attacked, would violate this rule and cause confusion among the audience. By maintaining this structure, the story remains coherent and impactful, allowing each character to carry their unique narrative weight without overwhelming the plot.

Conclusion

The strategic removal of the attack scene from Cillian Murphy's character demonstrates the meticulous planning and artistic vision of Christopher Nolan. This choice enhances the film's emotional impact and aligns with Nolan's non-linear storytelling approach. By leaving certain elements to the audience's imagination, Nolan creates a more profound and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Keywords: Dunkirk, Christopher Nolan, Non-linear Storytelling