Testament of Youth (2014) is a powerful British war drama directed by James Kent, based on the memoir by Vera Brittain. The film chronicles Brittain’s journey through World War I, focusing on her personal experiences of love, loss, and the profound impact of war. The story is centered on Vera Brittain’s life before, during, and after the war, as she transforms from a bright, ambitious young woman into a grieving figure dealing with the emotional and social upheaval caused by the war.

Set against the backdrop of World War I, Testament of Youth follows Vera Brittain (Alicia Vikander), a young woman who defies the societal expectations of her time by pursuing higher education at Oxford University, much to the dismay of her conservative family. During her time at Oxford, Vera falls in love with Roland Leighton (Kit Harington), a fellow student and aspiring writer. Their budding romance is full of promise and hope, but their future is shattered when Roland enlists to fight in the war, despite Vera’s objections.

As the war intensifies, Vera’s life is forever altered. The film poignantly depicts her experiences as she faces the losses of those closest to her—Roland, her brother Edward (Taron Egerton), and her close friends—all while struggling to make a meaningful contribution to the war effort. Vera eventually becomes a nurse, working in the trenches and hospitals, where she witnesses firsthand the devastating effects of war on soldiers and civilians alike.

The film explores Vera’s transformation from a hopeful, passionate young woman to a woman of resilience, strength, and sorrow, as she navigates the harsh realities of loss, grief, and the societal changes brought about by the war.