Carl Verna

Civil War is beautifully directed with a deft hand intimately focusing on the humanity of its protagonists while keeping an eye on the larger world building aspect of its dystopian theme. When we meet our characters they are already thrust into the horror of the world they find themselves in. The story is told through the lens of a combat photographer (Kirsten Dunst) and her journalist partner who sensing the end is near decide to interview the President in what’s left of Washington D.C. Before their journey they pick up a budding young photographer who wants to walk in the footsteps of her hero played by Kirsten Dunst. The country has split into warring factions that have ravaged towns and cities as explained by docu style news reports that effectively give us just enough information as to not feel lost in the plot but bravely and effectively leaves out unnecessary tedious details that would have diluted the impact of the personal stories of the lead ensemble cast. The film showcases gut wrenching combat scenes that are stylistically transformed into haunting photographic stills in black and white. For sure worth the watch with a very satisfying ending. -CV