In the near future, the United States of America has undergone significant changes. At every turn, the world is plagued by war, violence, and suffering. This film follows the journey of a group of war journalists – Lee (Kirsten Dunst), Joel (Wagner Moura), and Sammy (Stephen McKinley Henderson). After taking photos on the battlefield and the city streets, the trio decide it’s time to travel many miles to interview and photograph the President. Joining them on this dangerous journey is Jessie (Cailee Spaeny), a new and upcoming skilled photographer who looks up to Lee. The group sets off on their journey by car to reach the White House before it’s too late. Unfortunately, the task at hand is hazardous and almost unachievable, considering the world’s current condition. Along the way, they will encounter numerous individuals from various towns.
Civil War is an action-packed war film with dramatic elements. It was directed and written by Alex Garland, who is known for his past works, such as Ex Machina (2015) and Annihilation (2018). Although Garland is recognised for his expertise in sci-fi and his ability to create moments of unsettling tension, in Civil War, he presents something different. The film is terrifying from start to finish because of how well he portrays the daunting question of “what if.”
The four main performances in the movie are incredibly engaging and endearing, with each character having a unique personality. Moreover, the film portrays a touching friendship between Lee and Sammy that is more than Lee just teaching Sammy photography skills. It’s worth noting that Jesse Plemons’ side performance also adds to the unforgettable experience of the movie, even if his presence is brief.
The film’s storyline is unpredictable and full of tense, shocking, disturbing, and heartbreaking moments. Visually, the movie is stunning and makes for a rewarding big-screen experience. The use of surround sound and quirky music choices during some of the most devastating moments add to the atmosphere.
Overall, Civil War is deeply terrifying for multiple reasons. The realistic visuals, quirky film score, and plot all contribute to the exploration of the daunting question, “What if?”. Civil War is highly unpredictable, so you never know what to expect next. While the storyline alone may not appeal to everyone, I found the film highly impactful, leaving plenty of afterthoughts. The leading characters’ performances stand out and are compelling and likeable. This is easily Alex Garland’s best film to date, and if it is, in fact, his final film, he has ended his career with a loud bang.
11th April 2024
Written by Peter Walkden
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