Civil War: A Dystopian Reflection on America's Future

Hello, this is the 108th edition of 'What About That Movie,' focusing on the upcoming film 'Civil War: The Age of Division,' set to release on December 31. This film captivates audiences with its provocative premise: 'What if a civil war broke out across the United States?'

Set in a near-future America, the story unfolds in a dystopian landscape where California and Texas unite in rebellion against a president who has undermined the constitution and established a dictatorship, leading to the collapse of democracy.

The narrative follows four journalists heading to Washington, D.C. to interview the president. Among them is Lee (Kirsten Dust), a seasoned war correspondent who instinctively raises her camera even as bombs explode nearby, maintaining a cool demeanor with the mantra, "We don’t ask questions; we just record."

Joining her are passionate rookie reporter Jessie (Kaylee Spaney), cheerful and empathetic reporter Joel (Wagner Moura), and the experienced but physically challenged veteran reporter Sammy (Steven Henderson). Together, this diverse team traverses the continent, representing a microcosm of America with their varying races, genders, and ages.

Directed by Alex Garland, the film adopts an objective and neutral perspective on war, serving as a stark warning against the escalating political divisions in society. It does not lean towards any side, instead portraying the grim fate of a nation consumed by hatred and division. Viewers may find themselves feeling frustrated as they are thrown into the chaos of war without understanding its causes or context.

Unlike typical war films that glorify sacrifice with dramatic music and bloodshed, 'Civil War: The Age of Division' presents a stark contrast. It juxtaposes the vastness of America’s natural landscapes against the futility of human conflict, and even incorporates hip-hop music during shootouts to evoke discomfort.

The film's battle scenes are crafted with a commitment to realism, featuring a veteran from the U.S. Navy SEALs as a technical advisor and actual former soldiers portraying the horrors of war. The cinematography employs handheld cameras, creating an immersive experience that places viewers in the midst of the action, akin to a war correspondent witnessing the events firsthand.

Typically, dystopian films leave audiences relieved to return to their peaceful realities, but this film instills a deeper fear of the present. It paints a future that feels alarmingly plausible, making it a timely watch for a divided South Korea. Let’s hope for a year ahead filled with more unity and acceptance rather than hatred and division. Thank you for reading, and I look forward to sharing more in the next letter.