Civil War represents Alex Garland’s most recent cinematic endeavor, following his previous work, Men, released in 2022. Garland's collaboration with A24, known for its unconventional and thought-provoking films, continues with Civil War, albeit with a more straightforward narrative compared to his previous projects.
While Civil War presents unsettling elements, it lacks the intricate twists found in Garland's earlier works. However, the film raises numerous unanswered questions, leaving viewers to ponder the possibility of a sequel resolving these uncertainties.
WARNING! Spoilers ahead!
6 What Sparked the Conflict?
Unraveling Presidential Misdeeds
The film commences with the President preparing a speech, interspersed with real-world footage implicating him in severe wrongdoing. Portrayed by Nick Offerman, the President manipulates information, painting a grim picture of his involvement in war crimes. The exact catalyst for the civil war remains undisclosed, leaving viewers to question the President's actions that led to the nation's fracture.
5 Identifying the Factions
Deciphering Allegiances
The film ambiguously presents the American military under Presidential control pitted against a rebel group known as the WF (Western Front), prominently led by California and Texas. The lack of clarity on other states' allegiances raises questions about the conflict's complexity and the moral compass of each side. The absence of a clear delineation between good and bad forces reflects the nuanced nature of war.
4 Post-War Scenarios
The Prospect of Continued Turmoil
The film culminates in a brutal sequence where the WF eliminates the President, leaving the nation in a state of uncertainty. The aftermath raises questions about potential resistance to the new WF regime and the overall stability of the country. The unresolved nature of these plot points hints at the possibility of a sequel delving into the repercussions of the conflict's conclusion.
3 Future Trajectories for Characters
Survivors' Destinies
The film primarily follows four journalists en route to Washington D.C., with Joel and Jessie emerging as the sole survivors amidst chaos and loss. The character dynamics post-conflict raise speculation on their future pursuits and potential relationships, adding a layer of unresolved tension to the narrative.
2 Enigmatic Global Dynamics
Puzzling State of International Affairs
Amidst the chaos within the White House, negotiations hint at relocating the President to neutral territories like Alaska or Greenland, raising broader questions about global geopolitics and the involvement of other nations in the conflict. The film subtly alludes to a broader international backdrop, leaving viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of global events.
1 Ethical Dilemmas in Crisis
The Ethics of Journalism
The film portrays journalists as detached observers, grappling with ethical dilemmas amidst chaos and conflict. The stark portrayal of journalistic neutrality versus human compassion prompts reflection on the role of media in wartime scenarios, challenging conventional perceptions of journalistic ethics.