Civil War review: Heart-racing journey through a divided America will leave you numb

Now that people no longer have pointless bad faith arguments online, we're in a great place to have a good-spirited debate about American politics and journalistic practices, right?

Sorry, what's that you say? We STILL struggle to get along and many people feel more divided than ever?

Well, how about we pretend just for a little bit? That sounds good to me.

The latest A24 film (and most expensive to date) Civil War will certainly divide viewers. (A24)

Because it is worth mentioning, the latest A24 film (and most expensive to date) Civil War will certainly divide viewers.

Some people on the right will champion it as a brilliant flick that showcases the American people who will stand up to political tyranny by any means necessary.

However, there will also likely be those on the left who champion it as a cautionary tale against a future of American extremism, as well as the importance of hard-hitting journalism.

These different interpretations will likely result in petty debates on social media, but don’t let that stop you from seeing this film.

Because wherever you fall on the political spectrum, you will likely love Alex Garland’s Civil War because, to put it bluntly, it is simply just that damn good.

So, what is Civil War even about?

Well, a group of military-embedded photojournalists are trekking across a dystopian future America to reach Washington DC before rebel factions descend on the White House.

And who is fighting? If you can believe it, Texas and California have essentially split from the rest of the US, forming the Western Forces (WF) as they oppose the current president, who is serving a third term.

So, you can understand why Civil War will get people talking.

What does director Alex Garland have to say about the matter?

Garland is more than aware that his film could divide viewers, but insisted it was actually a good thing and would open the floor to a thorough debate about journalism, extremism, and political polarization.

The different interpretations of the film will likely result in heated debates on social media(A24)

Speaking to UNILAD, he said: “It wasn't intended to be divisive but maybe [it will be received that way].

“I made the film to try to be involved in some kind of conversation. What I was aware of was that this was a product of polarization.

"All arguments exists, it is [important as to] whether the argument is being heard on either side."

But what would an R-rated, hard-hitting film hoping to spark a debate be without some good and developed characters?

Civil War has that pretty much covered with its lead in Kirsten Dunst, who carries the film with a stern and captivating performance for the lead character, photojournalist Lee.

After helming an impressive career taking haunting photos in war-torn regions of the world, Lee is clearly experienced, but battle scarred.

Kirsten Dunst and Cailie Spaeny’s chemistry helps propel the film forward. (A24)

So, when a young protege, Jessie, played by Cailie Spaeny, ends up tagging along for the trip, you might think she would guide her with warmth and comfort.

Not at all.

Lee is brutal, harsh and to put it frank, a bit of an a**hole, but it is the chemistry between the two actresses that makes it work.

Lee’s gruff and coldness fits well with Jessie’s innocence and drive, and the pair are able to learn from one another in what is an uneasy and unforgiving US of A tearing itself apart.

Final thoughts on Civil War

Whether you are knee-deep in the politics of the US or don’t even know who the two candidates are for the upcoming presidential election, Civil War is a film you need to see, so we can again all have a good talk about what's going on in America.

A well-earned 4 out of 5 stars for a film you won't soon forget.

★★★★