A Movie Theater at 35,000 Feet: Reflections on “Civil War”

“Civil War” presents a chilling vision of a near-future United States torn apart by internal strife.

As the airplane soared over continents, carrying my wife and me from Dubai to Zurich for our Swiss vacation in early September, I found myself immersed in Alex Garland’s latest cinematic offering, “Civil War.”

The irony wasn’t lost on me — watching a film about a fractured America while traversing international borders, the world below a patchwork of nations far removed from the turmoil depicted on my small screen. This unique viewing experience set the stage for a deep contemplation of the film’s themes and their relevance in our increasingly complex world.

A Mirror to Modern America

“Civil War” presents a chilling vision of a near-future United States torn apart by internal strife. The film’s premise is rooted in the current political landscape, extrapolating from the deep divisions that have become increasingly apparent in recent years, particularly during presidential elections. This speculative approach serves as a stark warning, urging viewers to consider the potential consequences of unchecked polarization.