The Iraq War is often associated with grand strategies and heroic moments, but Ray Mendoza and Alex Garland’s “Warfare” shatters these clichés. The film follows a platoon of American Navy SEALs on an unspectacular mission in 2006 without resorting to backstories or emotional monologues. Instead, it immerses the viewer in the intense, real-time atmosphere of combat.
The movie eschews war-movie tropes like dramatic close-ups and sentimental moments, instead focusing on the mundane details of war. The sound design is particularly noteworthy, with a visceral experience that puts the viewer right in the midst of battle. However, some may find the inclusion of behind-the-scenes footage at the end to be jarring.
Through its portrayal of combat’s chaos and pointlessness, “Warfare” challenges traditional notions of heroism and patriotism. The film is unflinching in its depiction of war’s effects on those involved, highlighting the humanity behind the violence. With a talented cast and impressive production values, “Warfare” delivers a haunting and thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/warfare-movie-review-alex-garland-iraq-814d07e09b4b27feba3c3789e4d7c219