Civil War
★★★★
"Polarizing" is a term frequently used to characterize Alex Garland's recent A24 success, Civil War. Undoubtedly, a film depicting Americans perpetrating violence against fellow Americans while maintaining an apolitical stance invites such divisive rhetoric. However, the polarization may stem more from the disjunction between the marketed narrative and the film's actual focus. Some viewers initially feel misled, but understanding that the film centers on a group of war journalists rather than the war itself can significantly alter one's perspective on Garland's intent.
I've always valued films that challenge and provoke thought, and Civil War has lingered in my mind. Even as I write this review, I find myself contemplating its framing. The story, revolving around war journalists and the emotional toll of capturing the "perfect shot," could have been set in any conflict zone and remained compelling. So why choose America as the battleground? Undoubtedly, it serves as a captivating lure for audiences, myself included. While the film's imagery is impactful, I couldn't help but question its necessity, as the transformative journey of the main characters is what truly captivated me. Perhaps Garland believes such stark visuals, like a downed helicopter against the backdrop of a JCPenny, are necessary to underscore the gravity of journalism in wartime. I appreciate Garland's decision not to take a political stance; much like his other sci-fi works, he crafts a deeply personal narrative within a fictionalized world. The unsettling plausibility of Civil War's world leaves viewers grappling with where to focus their attention.
The debate surrounding the story risks overshadowing the film's many strengths. Visually stunning, with impeccable sound design (particularly in IMAX), Civil War boasts a stellar cast (including Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen McKinley Henderson), with Kirsten Dunst delivering a career-best performance. Her nuanced portrayal, conveying volumes with just her gaze and sparse dialogue, anchors the film's emotional core.
Strangely enough, Civil War unfolds as a road trip narrative, evoking comparisons to the TV show The Last of Us. Each scene feels akin to a video game level, leading to a climactic boss encounter that is both thrilling and frustrating. While the tension-building scenes are undeniably effective, I found myself questioning their necessity, adding to my confusion about Garland's overarching vision. Despite occasional imbalance, Civil War stands as a commendable film teetering on the brink of greatness. Rather than a critique of democratic breakdown, it serves as a tribute to the unifying force required to keep a diverse group together in the face of adversity.
