Top War Film of the 2020s Quietly Dominates Streaming Platforms
2024’s “Civil War” has emerged as a significant player in the realm of war films, captivating audiences and quietly ascending the streaming charts. This dystopian action thriller from A24 is currently ranked among the Top 10 most-watched movies on HBO Max in the United States.
Overview of “Civil War”
“Civil War” follows a team of war journalists, led by photojournalist Lee Smith, portrayed by Kirsten Dunst. Their mission is to interview an authoritarian President amidst the chaos of impending rebellion. The story unfolds as the team travels from New York City to Washington, D.C., confronting combat zones, witnessing grave atrocities, and seeking refuge in camps along the way.
Cast and Crew
- Kirsten Dunst as Lee Smith
- Stephen McKinley Henderson
- Sonoya Mizuno
- Nick Offerman
Directed and written by Alex Garland, “Civil War” is characterized by its intense narrative and engaging performances.
Box Office Success
The film has proven to be a financial success, grossing over $127.3 million worldwide against a budget of $50 million. This achievement marks “Civil War” as A24’s most expensive and second-highest-grossing film to date.
Critical Reception
“Civil War” holds an 81% Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, demonstrating a generally positive reception from critics. However, audience reactions have varied, with a 69% score on the Popcornmeter. On IMDb, the film has a score of 7/10, indicating mixed reviews from viewers.
Notable Reviews
- Namrata Joshi from The New Indian Express praised the film for its cautionary themes.
- Moira MacDonald from The Seattle Times described it as a horror film, highlighting its unsettling proximity to real-world issues.
- Critic Sam Adams from Slate criticized the film for being overly cautious in its political commentary.
- Positive viewer feedback includes comments on its portrayal of conflict, while some users have noted pacing issues.
Current Streaming Status
“Civil War” is now available for streaming on HBO Max and is currently the second most-watched film on the platform, just behind “One Battle After Another,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The film’s ability to resonate with audiences showcases its significant impact in the war film genre for the 2020s.
Key Facts
- Release Date: April 12, 2024
- Runtime: 109 minutes
- Director: Alex Garland
“Civil War” stands out not just for its box office success but also for its exploration of complex themes. It has become a notable addition on streaming platforms, emphasizing its relevance in today’s cinematic landscape.
