Warfare Review: Intense Real-Time Film Plunges You into the Heart of Hell

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Here’s a tip: catch Warfare from one of the front seats at the movie theater to fully immerse yourself in this captivating film.

Sure, 'immersive' might be excessively used to the point where it makes you queasy, yet it aptly describes this movie. The film plunges you right into the heart of a Navy SEAL mission in Iraq back in 2003, unfolding minute by minute. It’s shot with handheld cameras, featuring intense close-ups, jarring explosions, and whizzing bullets (while sound design isn’t typically glamorous, it deserves recognition for being phenomenal here). You feel like you can almost detect the scent of gunpowder.

The movie "Warfare" is co-written and helmed by Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza, an Iraq War veteran. Mendoza, who previously served as a Navy SEAL, drew from a true event for the screenplay—when his platoon's sniper position was unexpectedly attacked by Iraqi forces.

D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai portrays Mendoza in a performance that is likely to elevate theReservation Dogs star to new heights. However, every member of the cast delivers an exceptional show, with particular mention going to Joseph Quinn from Stranger Things, who shines in his role as Sam. Will Poulter As Erik, the officer tasked with maintaining order, and Cosmo Jarvis as Elliott the charming sniper whose actions remain unpredictable—after all, part of the suspense comes from not knowing what will unfold next.

Nested within the house, the SEAL team observes through windows and scopes as their air support relocates, and the insurgents start gathering. An assault can originate from any angle, and indeed it does. The strength of that movie lies in focusing on people rather than numbers, placing them at the heart of the narrative. In doing so, viewers witness firsthand the impact of violence and mortality up close. They encounter the physical, mental, and emotional toll inflicted upon those involved.

This movie doesn't aim to showcase the Iraqi people or place the story within the broader conflict, and it may face criticism for this omission. Although viewers get a glimpse into the fear experienced by the household hosting the Navy SEAL team and gain an understanding of the innocent lives caught up in these events, political aspects take a back seat.

The movie aims to depict what it's like for someone caught up in that scenario. A predicament that fortunately the majority of us in this nation do not face, yet remains an ordeal endured by troops everywhere globally. The narrative could just as well be presented from the perspective of individuals on the Iraqi side.

Given all the America First There’s a lot happening, including an examination of the Iraq War. Despite potentially lacking empathy for U.S. military actions, the movie stands out due to its impressive technical execution and powerful acting. When viewed purely as a portrayal of human experiences under extreme conditions, it becomes undeniable in its impact.

Warfare is set to be released on April 18th.

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