Kermode & Mayo’s Take

Warfare with Alex Garland & Ray Mendoza

Apr 17, 2025
Join Alex Garland, an acclaimed writer and director behind hits like Ex Machina, and Ray Mendoza, a former Navy SEAL and military advisor, as they discuss their gripping new film 'Warfare.' They delve into the importance of authentic storytelling in depicting modern conflict, drawing from Mendoza’s own wartime experiences. The conversation also touches on sound design, narrative techniques, and the challenges of balancing realism with cinematic tradition. Don't miss their insights on the emotional weight of representing war on screen.
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ANECDOTE

Penguin Changes Steve Coogan's Character

  • 'The Penguin Lessons' features Steve Coogan rescuing a penguin in 1970s Argentina.
  • The penguin transforms his outlook amidst political turmoil, blending humor and subtle political awakening.
INSIGHT

Authentic Combat Memory Portrayal

  • 'Warfare' aims to recreate an incident of combat as accurately as possible, based on veterans' memories.
  • The film embraces memory's contradictory nature instead of concealing it, exposing the fragmented reality of combat.
INSIGHT

Sound Design Drives Realism

  • Sound design in 'Warfare' conveys authentic battle sounds differing between outgoing and incoming rounds.
  • The film shows sound as experienced inside soldiers' heads, especially post-explosion, heightening visceral immersion.
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