Civil War

Synopsis: In a dystopian future America, a team of military-embedded journalists races against time to reach Washington, D.C., before rebel factions descend upon the White House.

Movie Review:

"Civil War," directed by Alex Garland, is a gripping and original war movie set in a post-dystopian America in the near future. The film does not shy away from the brutal realities of war, offering an intense and upsetting portrayal of the violence that ensues. Garland's decision not to take sides in the narrative allows for a compelling exploration of the experiences of four journalists on a road trip in search of the truth.

Kirsten Dunst delivers a standout performance as Lee Smith, a veteran ace journalist with a legendary reputation for her resilience in the face of the horrors of war. Dunst's portrayal of Lee as a strong, independent character with a compelling backstory adds depth and emotional weight to the film. Cailee Spaeny shines as Jessie Cullen, a young rookie journalist who looks up to Lee as a hero and mentor. Spaeny's portrayal of Jessie's journey from innocence to confidence is both endearing and engaging, and her chemistry with Dunst adds a poignant layer to their mentor-student relationship.

Wagner Moura impresses as Joel, another journalist working alongside Lee, bringing depth and nuance to his character. The film's action sequences are intense and realistic, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats and driving home the potential consequences of unchecked conflict. While actors like Nick Offerman and Jesse Plemons deliver strong performances in smaller roles, their characters feel underutilized.

The climactic battle in Washington D.C. is a highlight of the film, offering high stakes and powerful visuals that underscore the film's central themes. Like Garland's previous work, the ending of "Civil War" is abrupt and leaves viewers wanting more. Overall, the film is an emotional rollercoaster, blending strong action with a relevant message and intense battle scenes that leave a lasting impact. I am giving "Civil War" a 4.5/5 stars.

Director: Alex Garland

Cast: Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen Mckinley Henderson, Jefferson White, Nelson Lee, Evan Lai, Greg Hill, Sonoya Mizuno, Jesse Plemons and Nick Hofferman

Runtime: 109 Minutes