Austin, Texas – Filmmaking often grapples with the portrayal of war on the screen, with many movies falling into the trap of romanticizing conflict. Director Alex Garland sought to steer clear of this in his film “Civil War” by delving into the nuances of war cinema. Starring Kirsten Dunst, Cailee Spaeny, Wagner Moura, and Stephen McKinley Henderson, “Civil War” explores the gritty reality of a civil war in near-future America.
Garland reflected on the visual and narrative elements that often glorify war in cinema, emphasizing the importance of capturing the raw and authentic essence of conflict. The film follows the journey of seasoned war photojournalist Lee, played by Dunst, as she navigates the frontlines alongside her colleagues. Through the lens of three generations of journalists, Garland delves into the transformative power of repetition and experience in shaping their viewpoints.
As Garland developed the film over the years, the political landscape around the world shifted, influencing his own perspectives on centrist ideologies. In an era of heightened polarization and division, Garland found himself reevaluating his political beliefs, gravitating towards a more centrist stance. The evolving nature of government and media roles in safeguarding against extremism and fascism resonates deeply in the narrative of “Civil War.”
Through the lens of journalism and storytelling, Garland sheds light on the insidious nature of fascist behavior, often camouflaged under different guises in modern society. Drawing parallels to real-world events, Garland’s exploration of extremism and its manifestations serves as a cautionary tale within the context of contemporary political climates. “Civil War” serves as a poignant reflection on the necessity of vigilance against the rise of authoritarian ideologies in an increasingly tumultuous world.