Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza Explore the Complex Realities of War in New Film ‘Warfare’

Oscar-nominated filmmaker Alex Garland, known for works like *Ex Machina* and *28 Days Later*, collaborates with former Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza on a new film titled *Warfare*. The film presents a raw and immersive depiction of a failed 2006 Navy SEAL mission in Ramadi, Iraq. Told entirely through the recollections of veterans, the movie avoids traditional cinematic storytelling and instead relies on the visceral sounds of combat and the real experiences of soldiers.

Garland emphasizes that while the film has an inherently anti-war message—highlighting the tragedy and pain of war—it does not argue that war should never happen. He draws parallels to current conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, stating that peaceful resolutions are always preferable, but sometimes war is unavoidable.

Mendoza, who lived the events depicted in the film, found the filmmaking process therapeutic and believes *Warfare* finally gives voice to veterans who often feel overlooked. Ahead of its release, over 1,000 veterans viewed the film, many expressing that it authentically captured their experiences. The film also features actors like Will Poulter and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, who trained through a military-style bootcamp to prepare. *Warfare* is now showing in cinemas.