“Civil War” is a 2024 dystopian action thriller written and directed by Alex Garland, known for his thought-provoking films such as Ex Machina and Annihilation. The movie stars an ensemble cast led by Kirsten Dunst, and it explores the devastating consequences of a fractured United States amidst a brutal civil conflict. Here’s an in-depth look at the movie, its cast, story, and key production details.
Movie Reviews
There was much acclaim for “Civil War” for its graphic storytelling, great performances, and thought-provoking themes. Kirsten Dunst’s performance as seasoned war photojournalist Lee Smith has been described to date as one of the very best performances of her entire career. The action, the cinematography by Rob Hardy, has been lauded with critics for its gritty realism-thematically immersing this audience in a dystopian landscape.
Although some critics commented on the heavy themes and the slow pacing of certain parts of the movie, overall, they praised Alex Garland for a well-thought-of gripping storyline that goes beyond the boundaries of the usual war films. Rotten Tomatoes scores the movie 87%, labeling it “a haunting exploration of humanity amidst chaos.”
Cast
The film boasts a stellar cast, with each actor delivering powerful performances:
- Kirsten Dunstas Lee Smith, a war photojournalist and the film’s protagonist.
- Wagner Mouraas Joel, a Reuters journalist and Lee’s trusted colleague.
- Cailee Spaenyas Jessie, a young aspiring photojournalist.
- Stephen McKinley Hendersonas Sammy, Lee’s mentor and a veteran journalist.
- Sonoya Mizunoas Anya, a British reporter embedded with the Western Forces.
- Nick Offermanas the President of the United States, a controversial and authoritarian figure.
Other notable cast members include Jefferson White, Nelson Lee, and Jonica T. Gibbs in pivotal roles.
Release Date and Trailer
“Civil War” had a standing ovation at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival on March 14, 2024. The film was distributed to theaters in the United States and the United Kingdom, where it was released on April 12, 2024, by A24 and Entertainment Film Distributors, respectively.
The trailer, released in February 2024, is pretty chilling and provides a glimpse into the film’s intense narrative. The film opens with shots of a ravaged America interspersed with tense interactions between characters. The trailer effectively teases the central conflict of the film as well as Alex Garland’s signature style of blending human drama with larger societal themes.
Plot
Set in a near-future America divided by civil war, the film follows journalist Lee Smith and her colleagues Joel and Sammy as they travel from New York City to Washington, D.C. Their mission: to interview the reclusive president before the capital falls to the “Western Forces,” a coalition of secessionist states.
The group of journalists takes a journey through the war-ravaged landscapes, where they encounter unimaginable violence, moments of fleeting humanity, and moral dilemmas over documenting the war. It explores all the personal and professional issues journalists face in such harsh circumstances, taking up questions of courage, ethics, and the price of truth.
Songs and Music
Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow do a great job of orchestrating the haunting score which fills the dark and tense air of the movie. Of course, not having a traditional soundtrack means little. When minimalist, ambient music plays along to build up emotional scenes, a point is made. Tracks “Through the Ruins” and “The Last Stand” have been highly praised.
Film Locations
The film “Civil War” was shot in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2022, with some scenes shot in London. The contrast of locations has really brought out the chaos of urban warfare and the eerie quiet of rural landscapes. The detailed set design and realistic portrayal of war zones add to the movie’s immersive quality.
Box Office Performance
With a $50 million budget, “Civil War” was the priciest film A24 produced so far. The movie broke all the box office records opening at $25.7 million-the largest release of A24. So far, it grossed $126 million worldwide, making it one of A24’s most profitable films.
Conclusion
“Civil War” is a disturbing and thought-provoking addition to Alex Garland’s filmography. The compelling narrative, powerful performances, and haunting visuals make this movie a must-watch for fans of dystopian dramas. Whether the viewer is drawn by the action, the ethical dilemmas of war journalism, or the masterful direction, this film is sure to provide an unforgettable cinematic experience.
