(From left to right) Kirsten Dunst and Cailee Spaeny in ‘Civil War’. Photo: A24.
‘ from A24Civil war‘ offers a terrifying vision of what would happen if America fractured. The film follows a group of journalists who are determined to witness history no matter the cost, with chaos and fear around every corner.
The film is written and directed by Alex Garlandwho also directed ‘Ex Machina‘ and ‘Annihilation‘. Kristen Dunst The protagonist is war photographer Lee Smith, who travels around the country to take photographs. Alongside Dunst are Nick Offerman, Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Sonoya Mizuno, Jefferson White, Stephen McKinley Hendersonand Jesse Plemons.
While the film seems inspired by the current political climate, it doesn’t tell the story from either the left or the right. Instead, Garland focuses on the battles between citizens of the United States.

Where can I watch ‘Civil War’?
Kirsten Dunst in ‘Civil War’. Photo: A24.
The film premiered at SXSW on March 14, 2024, and garnered positive reactions from critics and audiences alike. Originally scheduled for release on April 26, ‘Civil War’ hit theaters on April 12. The film’s $50 million budget makes it the most expensive film released by A24. Since its release, it has grossed over $114.3 million worldwide. The film has a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes.
Buy tickets: ‘Civil War’ movie times
Garland’s action thriller was available on digital platforms starting May 24, 2024. Missed it in theaters? You can now enjoy all the action from home: rent it for $19.99 or buy it for $24.99 on VOD platforms like Apple TV, Main videoGoogle Play, YouTube and Vudu.
Where to watch the movie ‘Civil War’ in streaming
A film that generates debate
Nick Offerman in ‘Civil War’. Photo: A24.
‘Civil War’ presents California and Texas as a united force, which seems an unlikely alliance given the political distance between the two countries. However, Garland does not tell the story from either side. The director intends for the film to generate conversation and provoke debate.
The cast has also spoken out on the topic. “The whole movie is open to interpretation,” Dunst said in an interview with VarietyNick Offerman calls the film “a brilliant work of fiction” movie premiere and says his depiction of the US president is not based on current or former presidents: “When you watch the movie, it’s so disconnected from anything related to modern politics, not just in your country but in any country.”
Related article: Review of the film ‘Civil War’
When can I get ‘Civil War’ on Blu-Ray?
Wagner Moura in ‘Civil War’. Photo: A24.
For physical media lovers, the action thriller will be available on DVD, Blu-ray and 4K UHD on July 9, 2024 and will include special features such as:
- Torn Asunder: Alex Garland’s six-part ‘Civil War’ documentary
- Movie trailer
Those who purchase the physical copy on Amazon will also receive a special Amazon Blu-ray-exclusive feature with their copy: a Q&A with the cast and director.
Buy ‘Civil War’ on Amazon
Watch the official trailer for ‘Civil War’ below:
The official synopsis for ‘Civil War’ is as follows:
In the near future, the United States is in the throes of civil war as different factions prepare for a final assault on Washington DC to overthrow the president. A small group of journalists travel through a once familiar, now dangerous country to get to the front lines and witness what is happening.
Who is in the cast of ‘Civil War’?
- Kirsten Dunst as Lee Smith
- Wagner Moura as Joel
- Cailee Spaeny as Jessie
- Stephen McKinley Henderson as Sammy
- Nick Offerman as President of the United States
- Jesse Plemons as soldier
Kirsten Dunst in ‘Civil War’. Photo: A24.