Rising stars show pains of war in 'Testament of Youth'

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The World War I drama "Testament of Youth" shows the horrors of war and its impact on the battlefield and those back home dealing with loss.

The film is based on a British memoir written by Vera Brittain, a woman who shared her experiences just before and during World War I. Alicia Vikander and Kit Harington star as young lovers who must learn to deal with many harsh realities.

"It is a remarkable story about youth," Vikander said. "People who grew up at time where all their dreams and their hopes were kind of put on hold because of this war."

Even though the film is set 100 years ago, both actors saw the correlation to current times.

"We hope this movie is powerful and hits home with troops currently serving, with families with their loved ones away," Harington said.

Vikander is a Swedish-born actress who has been working for 13 years. She has five more films out this year, including the big screen remake of "The Man from U.N.C.L.E."

Harington is British and started his career on the London stage in "War Horse" while still in drama school. His career took off in 2011 with his role as Jon Snow in "Game of Thrones."

Both are enjoying the ride.

"It's been years of going to castings and auditions, tons of parts and roles you didn't get!" laughed Vikander.

"I think it's always nice to be referred to as an overnight sensation even if you're not," Harington said.

Vikander agreed. "I guess it's a compliment!"

"Testament of Youth" is in theaters now.