Warfare Movie Review – A Battle You’ll Feel in Your Bones

Warfare, directed by Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza, is a harrowing Navy SEALs film set during the Iraq War. This intense Warfare movie review dives into the realism and emotional weight of the story, which unfolds in real time. Rather than offering backstory or exposition, Warfare drops the viewer straight into a covert mission in Ramadi. What follows is a nerve-shredding journey into survival, tension, and brotherhood.

Warfare Trailer:

The Good:

What sets Warfare apart is its raw, boots-on-the-ground authenticity. The film doesn’t waste time explaining the mission or political context. You’re embedded with the soldiers, feeling every ounce of uncertainty and adrenaline. The cinematography is relentless, often giving no visual relief. It’s disorienting, but purposefully so, mimicking the battlefield’s chaos.

Sound design amplifies the realism. From the deafening silence before engagement to the explosive chaos of gunfire and warfare, the soundscapes create an unrelenting sense of tension that grips you from start to finish. The film also excels at balancing action with character, giving each soldier just enough personality and weight to make the stakes feel deeply personal.

The acting across the board is top-notch. Joseph Quinn is completely captivating in his role, delivering a grounded performance. Will Poulter brings depth and internal struggle that never feels scripted. The rest of the ensemble cast blends seamlessly into their roles, further enhancing the realism. No performance feels forced—these aren’t actors playing soldiers; they are soldiers for 95 unforgettable minutes.​

One of the most effective storytelling elements is the film’s pacing. The slow, creeping buildup creates dread. Then, just when you settle into that unease, chaos erupts. That unpredictability fuels the film’s power and makes this Warfare movie review all the more compelling.

The Bad:

If there’s one minor drawback, it’s the heavy use of military jargon. That may alienate viewers who aren’t familiar with tactical language. Dialogue remains sharp, but some exchanges may fly over the heads of general audiences. Still, it’s a minor issue in an otherwise immersive experience.

The Verdict:

Warfare is one of the most gripping, authentic, and heart-pounding war films in recent memory. This might just be Alex Garland’s best work to date. You don’t just watch Warfare—you endure it. You breathe with it. It stays with you long after the final frame. If you’re looking for a Navy SEALs film that respects the lived experience of soldiers and challenges the audience, this is it. Warfare belongs on the biggest screen possible. See it in theaters. See it in IMAX. Just be ready to hold your breath.

Director: Alex Garland, Ray Mendoza
Writer: Alex Garland, Ray Mendoza
Cast: Joseph Quinn, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Cosmo Jarvis, Will Poulter, Charles Melton, Kit Connor, Noah Centineo, Taylor John Smith, Michael Gandolfini, Adain Bradley, Henrique Zaga, Evan Holtzman
Warefare debuts on April 11, 2025, in theaters. Be sure to follow E-Man’s Movie Reviews on Facebook, Subscribe on YouTube, or follow me on Twitter/IG @EmansReviews for even more movie news and reviews!