How ‘Civil War’ betrays its characters — and audiences

Los Angeles Times Newsletter
The buzzy war drama is absent the examination of causes and consequences central to great journalism.
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Los Angeles Times
Entertainment
In trying to hedge its politics, 'Civil War' betrays its characters — and the audience Click to view images

Alex Garland's powerful war drama is ostensibly a tribute to the fourth estate. But the film is absent the examination of causes and consequences central to great journalism.

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'Rust' armorer Hannah Gutierrez sentenced to 18 months in prison Click to view images

A New Mexico judge excoriated the 26-year-old Arizona woman, who loaded Alec Baldwin's gun with five dummy rounds and one lead bullet, which killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in October 2021.

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Inside the most unnerving scene in 'Civil War': 'It was a stunning bit of good luck' Click to view images

With a deeply disturbing turn by Jesse Plemons, one scene in "Civil War" encapsulates the film's combustible political balancing act. It almost didn't happen.

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'Alienist' author Caleb Carr — grieving his late cat — reflects on his life amid battle with cancer Click to view images

Caleb Carr discusses grief and dying — subjects that linger over his new nonfiction book, "My Beloved Monster," and now loom over what might be the final months of his life.

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The best moments of Coachella 2024 in photos Click to view images

Check out the best images from L.A. Times staff photographers on the ground at the first weekend of the 2024 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

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Robyn Dixon confirms her exit from Bravo's 'The Real Housewives of Potomac' Click to view images

Robyn Dixon, an original 'Real Housewives of Potomac' cast member, confirmed her departure Monday on her podcast after eight season on the Maryland-based show.

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'We apologize': CBS vows to air Billy Joel milestone concert again after ending is cut off Click to view images

Some Billy Joel fans aren't loving CBS after its broadcast abruptly cut away from his100th show at Madison Square Garden. Here's how to see the full concert.

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