Civil War

Civil War succeeds in creating an intense, gripping and shocking film. However, severely lacks any real depth of American politics.

While a good film about journalists it is not a film about a civil war. The film name sake is barely touched on, skimming the surface with by the start of the end credits you are still sat there thinking “so what is the deal with this war?“. It neglects showing the real political landscape of America at the time resulting in a loss of real impact of the ongoing war.

What it does so well is show journalists and the dedication and passion they have for the job. Cailee Spaeny shines throughout with a shattering performance, supported only by strong and great performances showcased by Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura and Stephen McKinley Henderson.

The tensions that follow scene after scene is amplified throughout, the startling violence that keeps your eyes unmoving from the screen yet give you the urge to look away. The film goes on to seem somewhat confused at what it is attempting to do.

This is ultimately a captivating film about journalists not about a civil war and I believe its title and promotional campaign is the reason for peoples disappointment in altering expectations.

Civil War, dir. Alex Garland

Release: 12 April 2024

Lara Edwards.