Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza's 'Warfare' Delivers a Raw, Real-Time Combat Experience

The film, based on Mendoza’s 2006 Iraq War memories, earns praise for its immersive sound design and performances, but its lack of context and divisive mid-credits sequence draw criticism.

Co-directed by Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza, 'Warfare' is a visceral depiction of a failed Navy SEAL mission in 2006 Ramadi, Iraq, presented in real-time over 95 minutes.
The film focuses on the sensory and emotional realities of combat, with its standout sound design immersing viewers in the chaos and terror of battle.
While critics praise performances by D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Will Poulter, and Joseph Quinn, the lack of character development and broader political context has been a point of contention.
A controversial mid-credits sequence juxtaposing real-life soldiers with their on-screen portrayals has sparked debate over its impact on the film’s tone and message.
The movie avoids glorifying war, presenting it as a brutal and dehumanizing experience, but some argue its narrow focus limits its thematic depth.