Civil War (2024)

In Alex Garland’s enigmatic Civil War, the year is a fractured 2024, and America is embroiled in a chillingly familiar conflict. We follow four journalists as they navigate a warzone with no clear battle lines. Their mission: to capture the truth amidst the chaos, a truth that feels just out of reach. Two of the journalists who are the primary focus of the movie are the jaded veteran Lee (Kirsten Dunst) and the wide-eyed rookie Jessie (Cailee Spaeny). 

Garland masterfully weaves historical echoes into the film’s fabric. The haunt of the original American Civil War hangs heavy, with desolate landscapes mirroring those of iconic photographs. This isn’t a history lesson, though. It’s a nightmarish reflection, forcing us to confront the potential consequences of America’s current divisions. The film doesn’t spoon-feed answers; it invites uncomfortable conversations, a quality that elevates it from a mere war film to a powerful social commentary.

Thematically, Civil War is a gut punch. It explores the dehumanising effects of war, the erosion of trust, and the numbing power of constant violence. Every scene has a palpable sense of dread, with brief glimpses of unadulterated humanity. One scene, a tense exchange between Lee and a lone soldier guarding a desolate outpost, exemplifies this perfectly. Dunst delivers a heart-wrenching performance, conveying years of war weariness in a single, tear-filled glance. Spaeny complements her brilliantly, portraying a character grappling with the brutal realities of a conflict she barely understands.

Technically, the film is flawless. Garland’s direction is assured, building tension without resorting to cheap thrills. The score is a haunting soundscape, perfectly matching the film’s bleak atmosphere. The cinematography is raw and unflinching, placing the audience directly in the heart of the conflict. The use of colour is particularly striking. Washed-out greys and browns dominate, creating a sense of hopelessness that mirrors the characters’ struggle.

The editing is sharp, keeping the pace relentless and mirroring the chaotic nature of war. The dialogue is sparse but impactful, with every word carrying weight. Unlike some war films that glorify violence, Civil War doesn’t shy away from its ugliness. It forces us to confront the human cost, leaving a lasting impression.

Civil War isn’t an easy watch. It’s a film that will stay with you, provoking thought and discussion. It’s reminiscent of classics like Apocalypse Now in its unflinching portrayal of war’s brutality, but with a chillingly contemporary twist. This isn’t just a movie, it’s a reminder of the fragility of peace and the very real dangers of a divided nation.

This is a film that demands to be seen. It’s a powerful, thought-provoking masterpiece.