What is Darkest Hour about? Oscars 2018 nominations, awards, cast and plot for Gary Oldman’s Winston Churchill film

DARKEST Hour marched its way to two BAFTAs, including the Best Actor Award for Gary Oldman.

And the legendary actor then topped it all off by lifting the Best Actor Oscar in 2018 for his portrayal of Winston Churchill.

What is Darkest Hour about?

The film tells the thrilling and inspiring true story that began at the precipice of World War 2.

Gary Oldman stars as Sir Winston Churchill, who within days of becoming Prime Minister of Great Britain, must face one of the most defining trials that will affect the outcome of the war.

Churchill must decide between negotiating a peace treaty with Hitler and Nazi Germany or standing his ground on his firm ideas of liberty and freedom.

Laden with the threat of invasion, a sceptical King and an unprepared public, Churchill must withstand his darkest hour as he attempts to change the course of history.

When was Darkest Hour released and what's the runtime?

The film was awarded a limited release in the US in November before a general release on December 22.

As with many films, UK audiences had to wait until the UK release on 12 January.

The BBFC classified the historical film as a PG, with only a mild caution for bad language.

Darkest Hour has a run-time of 122 minutes.

What Oscars was Darkest Hour been nominated for?

Darkest Hour became the fourth most nominated film at the 2018 Oscars, getting the nod in six categories and winning two:

• Best Picture
• Best Actor - Gary Oldman (winner)
• Best Production Design
• Best Cinematography
• Best Makeup and Hairstyling (winner)
• Best Costume Design

Who is in the cast for Darkest Hour?

Gary Oldman

Darkest Hour sees Gary Oldman star as Britain's iconic Prime-Minister Winston Churchill as he comes to power during the worst days of WW2.

Gary's extensive filmography catalogue includes the Harry Potter franchise, The Dark Knight trilogy and his previous Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of George Smiley in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.

Lily James

Lily James takes on the role of Elizabeth Layton, Winston Churchill's personal secretary.

The English actress rose to fame playing Lady Rose in Downtown Abbey before turns in Hollywood flicks Wrath of the Titans and Baby Driver.

Kristin Scott Thomas

Dame Kristin Scott Thomas lends her trade to the film as Winston's wife, Clementine Churchill.

A five-time BAFTA Award nominee, she scooped the prize for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Four Weddings and a Funeral as well as an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for The English Patient.