Soldiers watching Hollywood war films might find themselves frustrated by the lack of authenticity in many portrayals, but that’s not the case with Warfare. Co-directed by Alex Garland, known for Ex Machina, and Ray Mendoza, a US Navy SEAL who draws from his own Iraq War experiences, this film offers a raw and gripping portrayal of combat.
Set in 2006 in Ramadi, Iraq, Warfare takes place in real-time, following Mendoza (played by D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai) and his team as they monitor a street from a dilapidated apartment where an Iraqi family hides. Their mission is simple: observe and ensure the safe passage of ground forces the next day. The film begins quietly, with tension building as sniper Elliott Miller (Cosmo Jarvis) tracks al-Qaeda insurgents across the street. The calm is shattered when the team is struck by an improvised explosive device, and chaos erupts. Gunfire and screams fill the air as the Seals scramble to survive.
Garland and Mendoza’s attention to detail shines through, as the film’s tactical moves feel authentic, almost as if they were lifted from Mendoza’s real-life experiences. The story, however, is minimal, focusing instead on the fear, bravery, and terror of soldiers caught in the middle of a firefight. Character development takes a backseat, with the closest glimpse of personal lives being a light moment at the start where the soldiers briefly watch an aerobics video. The film’s goal isn’t to delve into complex narratives but to immerse the audience in the harrowing reality of war.
While Warfare boasts an impressive cast, including Will Poulter, Joseph Quinn, Charles Melton, and Kit Connor, the focus remains on the battle itself. It doesn’t attempt to explore the broader political or Iraqi perspective, instead offering a tribute to the courage and perseverance of the soldiers involved. The sound design, by Glenn Freemantle, is exceptional, further enhancing the immersive experience, making Warfare one of the most authentic combat films of recent times.
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