Does the Film ‘Civil War’ warrant a new Look?

“Civil War” (2024): A Mirror to America’s Fractured Future

In the 2024 film Civil War, directed by Alex Garland and starring Kirsten Dunst, we are thrust into a dystopian near-future where the United States is a shadow of its former self, torn apart by political and ideological divisions. This cinematic masterpiece is not just a work of fiction; it is a chilling reflection of our current political anxieties, offering a glimpse into a future that feels disturbingly plausible. The film’s themes resonate deeply with the looming threats of a potential Trump inauguration and the controversial Project 2025, which critics argue poses a direct threat to democracy and the Constitution.

A Nation on the Brink: The Certification Crisis

The film’s premise is rooted in a certification crisis, a scenario where California, along with 20 other states, fails to submit its Certificate of Ascertainment for the 2024 election. This bureaucratic delay spirals into a national crisis, raising questions about the legitimacy of the election and the fragility of democracy. The plot mirrors real-world tensions, where political polarization and distrust in institutions are at an all-time high.

In the real world, the 2024 election has already become a flashpoint for controversy. With Trump’s potential return to power and the rollout of Project 2025—a sweeping conservative agenda aimed at reshaping the federal government—many fear that the certification process could become a battleground. Project 2025 proposes a dramatic expansion of executive power, including the ability to fire tens of thousands of civil servants and replace them with loyalists, effectively dismantling the checks and balances that underpin American democracy.

The film’s depiction of a fractured America feels eerily prescient. In one scene, Kirsten Dunst’s character, Lee Smith, witnesses a firefight between far-right militias and leftist insurgents in a suburban neighborhood. This chaotic imagery is not far removed from the reality of January 6, 2021, when a mob stormed the Capitol in an attempt to overturn the election results. The parallels are impossible to ignore: the film serves as a stark warning of what could happen if the certification process is weaponized or undermined.

Kristen Dunst’s Powerful Performance: A Journalist’s Moral Dilemma

Kirsten Dunst delivers a standout performance as Lee Smith, a war photographer navigating this chaotic landscape. Her character’s journey from detached observer to active participant is the emotional core of the film, mirroring our own potential roles in shaping the political landscape. Dunst’s portrayal of vulnerability and resilience is nothing short of captivating.

Lee’s moral dilemma—whether to remain neutral or take a stand—reflects the challenges faced by journalists and citizens alike in an era of misinformation and propaganda. The film raises important questions about the role of the media in a democracy, particularly as Project 2025 threatens to consolidate control over federal agencies and potentially silence dissent.

The Western Alliance: Absurdity and Irony

The film introduces the Western Alliance, a coalition of states including California and Texas, united in their opposition to a Trump-like administration. This unlikely alliance is both absurd and ironic, given the states’ stark political differences. Yet, it serves as a poignant commentary on the potential for unexpected political alliances in times of crisis.

In the real world, the idea of a California-Texas alliance may seem far-fetched, but it underscores the growing frustration with federal overreach and the erosion of democratic norms. California, with its $3.7 trillion GDP and progressive policies, has long positioned itself as a counterweight to the federal government. Meanwhile, Texas, a conservative stronghold, has its own grievances with Washington. The film’s portrayal of these two states joining forces is a darkly humorous yet sobering reminder of how extreme circumstances can force unlikely partnerships.

Parallels to the Present-Day Future: Project 2025 and the Threat to Democracy

Civil War draws striking parallels to current political movements, such as Calexit and Texit, highlighting the real possibility of secession. The film’s exploration of extremism and government overreach is a mirror to our own political climate, where democratic norms are challenged and civil liberties are at risk.

Project 2025, spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation and other conservative groups, has been described as a blueprint for authoritarianism. Its proposals include dismantling the Department of Justice, purging nonpartisan civil servants, and centralizing power in the executive branch. Critics argue that these measures would undermine the rule of law and erode the foundations of democracy.

The film’s depiction of a Trump-like president declaring martial law and suppressing dissent feels uncomfortably close to the potential realities of Project 2025. In one chilling scene, the president delivers a televised address, warning of “domestic terrorists” and vowing to restore order by any means necessary. This rhetoric echoes the language used by authoritarian leaders to justify crackdowns on dissent, and it serves as a stark warning of what could happen if Project 2025 is fully implemented.

A Call to Vigilance: The Fragility of Democracy

The film is not just a cautionary tale; it is a call to action. It urges us to reflect on the fragility of democracy and the importance of vigilance in upholding democratic principles. As we navigate this brave new world, Civil War serves as a reminder that the future of the United States depends on our ability to address these challenges.

The looming Trump inauguration and the potential implementation of Project 2025 have heightened fears of a constitutional crisis. The film’s portrayal of a nation descending into chaos is a stark reminder of what’s at stake. It challenges us to confront the uncomfortable truth that the seeds of division and conflict are already planted, and it is up to us to decide whether we will water them or tear them up by the roots.

Conclusion: A Must-Watch for Our Times

Civil War is a thought-provoking film that should be on everyone’s radar. It is a masterpiece that combines realism with absurdist elements, offering a gripping narrative that is both entertaining and deeply unsettling. As we confront the potential for political fragmentation, Civil War is a timely reminder of the need for transparency, accountability, and unity.

The film’s final scene, where the Western Alliance storms the White House, is both thrilling and heartbreaking. It leaves viewers with a lingering question: How far are we from the world of Civil War? The answer, perhaps, is closer than we’d like to admit.

Rating: 9/10

Why You Should Watch It: Civil War is a gripping, thought-provoking film that challenges viewers to reflect on the state of the nation. Its blend of realism and absurdity makes it both entertaining and deeply unsettling.

Where to Watch: Available on major streaming platforms and in select theaters.

References and Further Reading:

• TikTok Discussions: @PoliticalInsider2025
• The Electoral Count Act of 1887 (Congress.gov)
• California’s GDP: Economic Powerhouse (World Bank)
• Texas v. White: The Legality of Secession (SCOTUS)
• Yes California: The Calexit Movement (YesCalifornia.org)
• Movie “Civil War”: A Fictional Parallel (IMDb)
• Project 2025: A Threat to Democracy? (The Guardian)
• The Heritage Foundation’s Blueprint for Authoritarianism (Politico)

Ultimately, Civil War is a film that demands our attention, challenging us to confront the darkest aspects of our political reality while offering a glimmer of hope for a united future. As we face the uncertainties of the 2024 election and the potential implementation of Project 2025, the film serves as a powerful reminder that the future of democracy is in our hands.