Christopher Nolan is, without a doubt, one of the most talented directors going around. So where is he here? Nolan's movies are typically trim, taut, tense, somewhat complex, and totally terrific. Unfortunately, Dunkirk meanders through its 107min and doesn't come close to telling a story that is in the least bit engaging.

The film completely lacks the gritty realism of Band of Brothers, can't hold a candle to the feelgood inspiration of the 1958 film, and makes no real attempt at providing historical insight. That leaves us with a pretty pedestrian WWII flick that doesn't do much at all that is Nolan-style out of the ordinary.

For a man who has made a somewhat spectacular career out of obsession and puzzles, the only puzzle here is where is the genius?