Director Alex Garland Calls “Warfare” An Impactful ‘Conversation Starter’
JustWatch connected with visionary director and screenwriter Alex Garland to discuss his powerful new film Warfare—a deeply personal and unflinching portrayal of modern conflict based on firsthand accounts from the Iraq War. The film, Garland’s latest collaboration with A24, hits U.S. theaters this Friday (April 11th) and stars Will Poulter (The Bear), D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai (Reservation Dogs), Joseph Quinn (Stranger Things, Gladiator II), and Cosmo Jarvis (Shōgun).
Image courtesy of A24
Alex Garland on the Making of Warfare
Alex Garland, Director
“Warfare is a true story that Ray Mendoza, my co-writer and co-director, had been carrying with him for a long time from the Iraq War. Everything in this film is according to first-person accounts from the people involved. I didn’t add or subtract anything in the story, nor did the studio or the cast; and honestly, that was such a liberating experience when making this movie. Warfare is about being honest about war, which I think is never a bad thing, especially right now with everything going on. I think this film is impactful, and I hope it will be a conversation starter—especially for anyone with veterans in their lives.”
About Warfare
Written and directed by Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza, Warfare is a raw and intimate look at the realities of the Iraq War, built entirely from the firsthand recollections of those who lived it. The film refuses to dramatize or sensationalize, opting instead for emotional truth and brutal honesty in its portrayal of modern warfare. It’s a timely and deeply human story that resonates in today’s global climate.
About Alex Garland
Alex Garland is one of the most acclaimed creative voices in modern cinema. He began his career as a novelist with The Beach (1996) before pivoting to screenwriting with iconic films like 28 Days Later and Sunshine. Garland made his directorial debut with the Oscar-nominated Ex Machina, and went on to direct Annihilation, Men, Civil War (2024), and now Warfare (2025). Known for blending cerebral storytelling with visual intensity, Garland continues to challenge and captivate audiences.
About JustWatch
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