Civil War

– finally, another master work from Alex Garland. Though ostensibly a thriller about an imminent US civil war, it’s perhaps more a study of war photography and the role of journalism in documenting horrors. The four main characters are tropes, to be sure – the embittered old hand, the eager beaver up-and-comer, the alcoholic, and the wise old grandpa – but as a combination they work as effective pillars to prop up the narrative and steer the commentary. It is unbelievably intense and often grotesque; a visceral onslaught. But if that’s your cup of tea, it’s a feast for the senses and a cinematic treat.