I have been hearing the buzz about "Civil War," the A24 film that opened in theaters this past weekend, for awhile now. While it didn't end up being the movie that I thought it was going to be, it was still a great movie. I had visions of this film making some very controversial statements about the current divide in our country, but they strayed from supporting either side. It was actually a film about the experience of the photo-journalists covering the event, with little hints of some of the divisive issues. Although, it was interesting that the filmmakers portrayed a world where California and Texas were on the same side.
Alex Garland's film felt very real for those watching it, even having more "jump" scenes than some horror movies. The gunshots and explosions sounded so real that at times it became disturbing (which was a good thing!). The way that camera stills were worked into the action was brilliant. Kirsten Dunst (Lee), Wagner Moura (Joel), Cailee Spaeny (Jessie) and Stephen McKinley Henderson (Sammy) were all very convincing as travelers on a quest to cover the action and make it to Washington DC before the inevitable invasion by the rebels to interview the President.
Dunst amazingly portrayed a toughness that eventually broke her down as they got closer to the devastation. The way the roles seemed to reverse between Dunst and Spaeny was done well. It showed that while one reached a breaking point the other became hardened! Jesse Plemons was amazing in his very short-lived appearance, which is probably why it made it to the trailer. Nick Offerman, who portrayed the President, made the most of his quote to Moura's character at the end of the film.
Upon further introspection, it may be a good thing that the film didn't get heavily into the issues surrounding the divide. No matter what side you stand behind, this allows you to have your own take on what was really happening!