Alex Garland’s new film, “Civil War,” which explores the experiences of journalists in a fractured America, has revealed its streaming release date. Set to launch on Max on September 14, the film will also be accessible for rent or purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV+.
Featuring a star-studded cast, including Kirsten Dunst, Cailee Spaeny, Wagner Moura, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Nick Offerman, the film achieved a record-setting $25 million opening weekend for A24.
In a Variety cover story, Dunst explained that the film is crafted to stimulate conversation and diverse interpretations. “The movie is meant to be open to various interpretations,” Dunst shared. “There are aspects I accepted without explanation, which allows viewers to form their own understanding.”
Garland supported this approach, emphasizing that he intentionally left many aspects unresolved. “I have my answers,” Garland remarked, “but if Kirsten didn’t seek them out, I wouldn’t volunteer them.”
The film has received critical attention, with Variety’s Peter Debruge commending its intense and visceral nature. Debruge highlighted that Garland, known for his provocative previous work like “Men,” continues to push boundaries in “Civil War.” The film confronts unsettling visuals and ambiguous scenarios, challenging viewers with its depiction of extreme situations and unresolved conflict.
Although some have criticized it for capitalizing on election-year tensions, Garland’s film aims to highlight the absurdity of polarized conflicts, urging viewers to reflect on the nature of division and unity.