As we explore what is the message of the Civil War movie, we uncover how the media shapes our understanding of truth during crises.
Set for release in spring 2024, Civil War is the latest work from Alex Garland. We know him for films such as 28 Days Later (2002), Ex Machina (2014) and Annihilation (2018). As director and writer, Garland introduces the audience to a dystopian world. In this world, internal conflicts and social tensions lead to escalating violence. The story shows the work of journalists and war photojournalists, highlighting how the media documents conflicts and shapes public opinion. The picture depicts the brutality and division of society in times of crisis. It draws attention to the moral and ethical challenges faced by contemporary journalists.
Denotative analysis
The poster shows a giant hand holding a torch, symbolising freedom, which is part of the Statue of Liberty. Sandbags surround the torch, and armed soldiers aim their rifles. The muted colour scheme features greys and browns that dominate, creating a dark, martial feel. Also visible is the subtitle ‘Civil War’ and information about the film’s release and director.
Connotative analysis. In search of an answer: What is the message of the Civil War movie?
The poster references the iconic symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty, but in a distorted and disturbing context. The torch usually symbolizes freedom and hope. However, surrounded by sandbags and armed soldiers, it suggests a state of siege in which the ideals of freedom are threatened. The sandbags indicate a state of war or defense. Meanwhile, the presence of soldiers creates a militaristic and austere atmosphere, suggesting an internal conflict over fundamental values. The colour scheme and the lack of bright colours give the whole a sombre and apocalyptic tone. In this context, freedom is presented not as a universal and positive value, but as a terrain of struggle and conflict.
Commutation test
If we had used another symbol instead of the torch, such as a flag or a statue of another leader, the message would have changed radically. This shift in symbolism could significantly alter the interpretation and impact of the overall message. The torch as part of the Statue of Liberty is crucial because it symbolises freedom as an American ideal that is under threat. Replacing the soldiers with civilians would suggest that the struggle is taking place on a social rather than military level. This change would significantly alter the context of the conflict. Removing the sandbags, on the other hand, would change the tone from militaristic to more symbolic. This would suggest not a physical threat, but a more abstract ideological conflict. However, the presence of these elements – torches, bags and soldiers – co-creates the image of a society torn internally.
What is the message of the Civil War movie? Myth analysis
Roland Barthes noted that myth is a system of meaning that presents certain values as natural and unchanging, when in fact they are a cultural construct. The Civil War poster challenges the myth of freedom and unity. A militaristic image of conflict ‘invades’ the torch, which symbolizes freedom. This juxtaposition questions the coherence and permanence of American ideals. In this case, we expose the myth of freedom and portray it as an ideal that actually needs to be defended. We also show that it is susceptible to internal tearing.
The poster and the elements depicted suggest that the message of the film Civil War is about the fragile nature of the ideals of freedom and unity in times of crisis. It portrays conflict as a phenomenon that can destroy a society’s core values if they are not properly protected and nurtured. It also points to the role of journalists, including photojournalists, who, by documenting war, reveal the truth about internal conflicts to the public.