Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza’s ‘Warfare’ is a visceral, real-time depiction of a 2006 Navy SEAL mission in Ramadi, Iraq. Co-directed by Garland and Mendoza—a former SEAL whose own experiences form the basis of the film—the movie is constructed from first-hand testimonies and unfolds in a single location over 95 minutes. It eschews traditional narrative arcs, backstories, or musical cues, immersing viewers in the chaos and claustrophobia of urban combat. The ensemble cast includes Will Poulter, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Kit Connor, Joseph Quinn, Michael Gandolfini and Cosmo Jarvis as Elliott Miller, a SEAL who suffered life-altering injuries during the mission.

1. The Times: “The most realistic war film I’ve seen”

The Times lauds ‘Warfare’ as “the most realistic war film I’ve seen,” praising its unflinching portrayal of combat and its departure from traditional Hollywood war narratives. The film’s commitment to authenticity, including intensive actor training and SEAL veteran coaching, is highlighted as a strength. The review notes that the film avoids overt dramatization or political commentary, focusing instead on the soldiers’ experiences. ​

2. The Guardian: “Nerve-shredding real-time Iraq war film”

The Guardian describes ‘Warfare’ as a “nerve-shredding real-time Iraq war film,” commending its immersive depiction of frontline combat. However, the review criticizes the film for lacking context and character development, stating that the soldiers remain mostly voiceless and their personal thoughts unexplored. The absence of Iraqi perspectives is also noted, suggesting that the film offers a narrow, potentially colonial viewpoint. ​

3. Empire: “Cinema on the frontlines”

Empire highlights the film’s commitment to realism, noting that ‘Warfare’ is based on Mendoza’s own experiences and aims to recreate events with as much remembered detail as possible. The review emphasizes the collaborative approach between Garland and Mendoza, stating that the film serves as a “living document” for those involved. The performances, particularly D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai’s portrayal of Mendoza, are praised for their authenticity. ​

4. Screen Rant: “Unfiltered and unflinching”

Screen Rant commends ‘Warfare’ for its “unfiltered and unflinching” portrayal of combat, highlighting the extensive preparation undertaken by the cast, including a three-week boot camp. The review notes that the film’s dedication to authenticity offers a powerful experience, though it may be challenging for some viewers due to its intense realism. ​

‘Warfare’ has been widely recognized for its immersive and realistic depiction of combat, with critics praising its commitment to authenticity and the performances of its cast. However, some reviews point out the film’s lack of context and character development, as well as the absence of diverse perspectives, particularly those of Iraqi civilians. Despite these critiques, ‘Warfare’ stands as a significant contribution to the war film genre, offering a raw and unflinching look at the realities of modern warfare.

We here at Lucky Break News certainly enjoyed the film and its immersive realism, and would certainly recommend going to watch to make up your own mind.

Let us know what you thought in the comments!

The Times – 5 out of 5 stars

The Guardian – 5 out of 5 stars

Empire – 5 out of 5 stars

Screen Rant – 7 out of 10 stars