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This article was originally published on April 15, 2024.
Spoilers follow for theAlex Garland filmCivil War, whichis now streaming on Max.
A pictures worth a thousand words, and especially so in thephotojournalism-focusedCivil War.
The veteran photographer feels protective of her young counterpart, though she disguises that instinct with prickly inaccessibility.
I thought I was sending a warning home: Dont do this.
Civil Warforeshadows Lees death, to an extent.
to which Lee replied, What do you think?
At the White House, Jessie does what her mentor would do.
They care about the truth; its why Jessie captures the presidents extrajudicial killing.
But who, if anyone, is paying attention?
How are these journalists shaping public opinion and the war?
In part, one could argue, this is because the film is focused on Lee and Jessies stories.
What does Jessie want her Abu Ghraiblike photo to convey?
Is it the cruelty of the Western Forces?
The weakness of the president?
Does it suggest that both sides in this civil war are at fault?
What does she hope might change as a result of its existence?
Hard to say with so little context about the world she lives in.
Will a publication run it?
Will the Western Forces suppress its release?
Will there be people who call it fake news?
Jessie never seems to wonder, perhaps because the film mistakes journalistic objectivity for neutrality, even passivity.
But it matters who takes these photos, too.
The goal shouldnt be bland impartiality, but accuracy and honesty.
In failing to reflect that,Civil Wars perspective remains underexposed.
