Garland's film depicts realistic turmoil from a botched military operation in Iraq

In 2006, a real-life incident in the Iraqi city of Ramadi became the inspiration for Alex Garland's film, which presents a striking portrayal of modern conflict. Co-written and co-directed by Ray Mendoza, a former US Navy Seal, the film focuses on a botched engagement that reveals the harrowing realities faced by soldiers in wartime. The narrative unfolds with a chilling depiction of a group of Seals descending on a civilian home under the cover of darkness, capturing the terror imbued in the local residents. The cinematic experience immerses viewers in the overwhelming sensations of fear and chaos, rather than unfolding as a conventional narrative with harmonious story arcs or character backstories. It lacks a musical score designed to sway the audience’s emotions and instead provides a raw glimpse into moments of quiet tension before the eruption of violence. This minimalist approach emphasizes the visceral reality of conflict without presenting it through a political lens. Critics have noted that the film's intent appears to be rooted in neutrality, focusing solely on the immediate consequences of the soldiers' actions and the emotional experiences they endure, rather than contextualizing the complexity behind military engagements. As a result, the film mirrors the sentiments expressed in earlier war films, but does so with an emphasis on the individual sensory experiences rather than the broader socio-political implications. In essence, while the film strives for an honest representation of war's brutality, it simultaneously grapples with its portrayal of absence - a lack of narrative context that some argue diminishes the understanding of the warfare depicted. The story has sparked discussions about the portrayal of military operations in cinema and the ethical responsibilities filmmakers have in informing audiences about the realities of conflict.