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Civil War (2024)
R  ‧ Action/War ‧ 1 Hours 49 Minutes

Written by Alex Garland

Directed by Alex Garland

THE CAST

Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Nick Offerman.

THE STORY

(In their own words).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.

THE BEST

The BEST things about the film

1. The writing and visual storytelling are just fantastic. 

2. Kirsten Dunst delivers an incredible performance as the lead photojournalist, one of the highlights. I think this is her favorite performance.  

3. The Sound Design is so immersive—especially since I saw it in IMAX, it made you feel like you were in the thick of it. These elements collectively elevate the whole experience of the movie.

THE WORST

The WORST things about the film

1. Plot Holes: The film encounters a few plot holes, particularly near the end, which can make certain developments feel a bit unrealistic or poorly explained.
   
2. Conclusion Issues: The way some scenarios wrap up towards the end of the movie is described as a bit ridiculous, which detracts from the overall impact and might leave viewers feeling unsatisfied.
   
3. I wish they had explained the backstory a bit more. I wanted to see more of what had been happening and what led them to this war. 

THE COMMENTS

Beyond its surface as a dystopian adventure, “Civil War” delves into the complexities of journalism in war. It portrays the moral and ethical dilemmas journalists face and the often grave consequences of their work. This film layer highlights the sacrifices made to pursue truth and the personal toll it extracts from those on the front lines of reporting. Moreover, the film serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of democracy and the ease with which societal divisions can escalate into violent conflict. It urges a reflection on the values of democratic governance and peaceful discourse.

THE LESSON

The lesson from the film is a reminder of how precious democracy is and the importance of a peaceful transition of power. It’s a call to maintain our democratic values and avoid the divisions that could lead to such conflicts.

IS IT REWATCHABLE

Yes, “Civil War” is definitely worth a second watch. It’s the kind of film that fully benefits from multiple viewings to appreciate its nuances and complex storytelling. Plus, it’s the perfect movie for post-viewing discussions, whether you’re unpacking its themes with friends or debating its portrayal of societal breakdown.

THE FINAL WORD

“Civil War,” directed by Alex Garland and starring Kirsten Dunst, is a riveting portrayal of a dystopian America on the edge of collapse. Set against the backdrop of a fractured nation, the film follows embedded journalists racing to capture the unfolding chaos, with standout performances and immersive sound design that genuinely anchors the tension. Despite some plot holes towards the end, “Civil War” excels in its gritty realism and poignant commentary on the fragility of democracy, making it a compelling watch. This A24 film is not just thought-provoking but profoundly moving, demanding attention and discussion long after the credits roll. It’s a must-see for its stark, unflinching look at a potential future that feels uncomfortably possible.

THE VERDICT 

My 3L system gives me the choice to Love It, Like It, or Lose It. 

“Civil War” earns a solid “Love It.” It’s a film that not only entertains but also challenges its audience to think critically about the direction in which our society is heading. 

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