alewatchesfilms’s review published on Letterboxd:
"Civil War" feels like a slap in the face, serving as a wake-up call to stop turning our eyes away from the realities of conflict. This isn't your typical action-packed blockbuster; it's a genuine portrayal of war in all its raw, cruel, and disturbing essence. While it does feature action sequences, it's not the kind of film that glorifies explosions and destruction. Instead, it focuses on the dehumanization and sadistic nature of humanity during times of war.
The film challenges us to question whether we truly see the atrocities of war or if we merely glance at them before moving on. It highlights how we live in our comfortable bubbles, shielded from the harsh realities of the world. Through the journey of four war journalists, we witness the normalization of violence and suffering through different cities. The journalists, while not unbothered by the situation, are forced to suppress their emotions as they carry out their duties. It's either look away or lose your mind.
Director Alex Garland masterfully sets the tone from the opening scene, immersing the audience in the brutality of war. The cinematography doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh truths, evoking emotional responses from the audience. There were so many details told through the shots that I would love to analyze and delve deeper into once I watch it again (which will definitely happen).
The pacing keeps you engaged, while the score sometimes adds a layer of “dry humor”, portraying serious conflict while playing music that doesn't contribute to a serious or dramatic tone. This representation mirrors how we often fail to grasp the true dimensions of what unfolds in war zones.
The cast delivers standout performances, with Kirsten Dunst delivering one of her best portrayals yet, capturing the moral struggle of her character flawlessly. Cailee Spaeny's performance is particularly impressive, showcasing her character's emotional journey with depth and nuance. Even in a brief appearance, Jesse Plemons commands attention and leaves a lasting impact.
The relationship between Kirsten's character and Cailee's is the heart of the film, providing a central focus amidst the varied perspectives offered by the four journalists from different generations.
"Civil War" is more than meets the eye; it's thought-provoking and unafraid to confront social issues. Alex Garland's intention to avoid glorifying war is evident throughout, as the film offers a stark portrayal of our societal response to conflict.
Ultimately, this is a necessary film that sheds light on the frightening reality we face today, serving as a chilling reminder that fiction often mirrors reality more closely than we'd like to admit.
