The 2024 movie Civil War, directed by Alex Garland, is a dystopian political thriller that has captured the imagination of audiences with its unexpected alliances and intense storyline.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the movie is the alliance between Texas and California, two states typically seen as political opposites. This blog explores the rationale behind this surprising partnership.
Premise of Civil War (2024)
Set in a near-future America, Civil War follows a group of journalists navigating a nation torn apart by civil conflict. The president, played by Nick Offerman, is serving an unprecedented third term, a significant factor contributing to the unrest.
The movie features a faction called the "Western Forces of Texas and California," which takes a direct stand against the US government. This coalition is surprising, given the usual political divide between Texas and California.
Third-Term President
The president’s third term is a key element that fuels the conflict in Civil War. His administration's authoritarian policies and extreme measures to maintain power, including targeting journalists, have led to widespread rebellion and secessions.
In American history, no president has served more than two terms since Franklin D. Roosevelt, whose four-term presidency led to the 22nd Amendment, limiting future presidents to two terms. This historical context adds a layer of realism to the movie's depiction of an unprecedented third-term presidency, emphasizing the extreme measures taken by the fictional president to maintain power.
Journalists Under Fire
In addition, Sammy, a veteran journalist in the film, highlights the dangers journalists face under this regime, stating, "They shoot journalists on sight in the capital. They literally see us as enemy combatants."
As the movie progresses, the soldiers of the Western Forces of Texas and California are depicted as welcoming journalists and even escorting them as they advance towards Washington, DC.
Journalists often play a crucial role in dystopian narratives, acting as the voice of truth in societies marred by propaganda and censorship. In the film, the journalists' perilous journey highlights the essential nature of press freedom and the personal risks taken by reporters to uncover the truth.
The Civil War Is Between Democracy Versus Fascism
This portrayal suggests that the fictional civil war doesn’t adhere strictly to the typical ideological lines of left versus right or liberal versus conservative.
Instead, the conflict is a battle between pro-democracy forces and a fascist federal government. The alliance between California and Texas is rooted in a common goal: to preserve democratic freedoms.
Despite their ideological differences, both states recognize the greater threat posed by the authoritarian regime. The president’s draconian measures, including extending his term and suppressing the press, have united these unlikely allies against a shared enemy.
The West in Western Forces
Aside from the Western Forces of Texas and California, other factions such as the “Florida Alliance” and the “New People’s Army” are mentioned, indicating a fragmented nation with multiple groups opposing the federal government. Additionally, there are the “Loyalist States,” which are allied with the authoritarian federal government, highlighting the deep divisions within the country.
The use of the term “Western Forces,” despite Texas not being in the geographic western U.S., evokes the broader concept of "The West" or western civilization, where democracy is a paramount value.
Insights from Director Alex Garland
Director Alex Garland sheds light on the thematic choices in Civil War. In an interview, he explains, “There is a fascist president. The president is killing their own citizens. Then what’s happened is two states who are in different political positions are saying we are more concerned about a fascist constitution… than we are about our political differences.”
This statement underscores the film’s focus on the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of democratic principles.
Garland also emphasizes the role of journalists in the film, noting that Civil War isn't just about politics but also about the critical function of the press in turbulent times. He states, “The film attempts to function like old-fashioned reporters would do—say, 'This is what I observed.' Then, it would be up to the viewer to take their own meaning from that."
This approach challenges the simplistic red-versus-blue divide often depicted in American media and encourages viewers to think critically about the current state of political polarization.
Quick Facts About Civil War
Civil War is produced by A24, a studio renowned for its distinctive and thought-provoking films such as "Moonlight," "Lady Bird," "Hereditary," "Uncut Gems," and "Everything Everywhere All at Once".
Directed by Alex Garland, the movie was released on April 12, 2024. Garland, known for his work on "Ex Machina" and "Annihilation," has built a reputation for blending thought-provoking themes with compelling storytelling.
The film boasts a stellar cast led by Kirsten Dunst, who plays Lee, a renowned war photojournalist. Wagner Moura stars as Joel, a Reuters journalist, and Cailee Spaeny portrays Jessie, an aspiring young photographer. Stephen McKinley Henderson plays Sammy, a veteran journalist, while Nick Offerman takes on the role of the President. Jesse Plemons, Dunst's real-life husband, makes an uncredited appearance as a menacing militant. Other notable cast members include Jefferson White as Dave, Nelson Lee as Tony, and Sonoya Mizuno as Anya.
Civil War has performed well at the box office, drawing in audiences with its compelling storyline and high-profile cast. With a production budget of $50 million, it is A24's most expensive film to date. The movie has grossed $120 million worldwide, making it a financial success.
Conclusion: Alliance for Democracy
The alliance between Texas and California in Civil War is more than a plot twist; it is a profound commentary on the need for unity in the face of authoritarianism. By transcending political differences, these states highlight the importance of defending democratic values against oppressive regimes. This creative choice in the film serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for collaboration in the fight for freedom and justice.
What do you think about this alliance? Does it make sense in the context of the movie, or do you have other theories?