"War Machine" is a satirical war film based on the nonfiction book "The Operators" by Michael Hastings. Released on May 26, 2017, the movie was directed and written by David Michôd and was produced and distributed by Netflix.
Synopsis:
The film offers a fictionalized version of the events in the book, focusing on the behind-the-scenes politics of the war in Afghanistan. Brad Pitt stars as General Glen McMahon, a character based on real-life General Stanley McChrystal.
McMahon is brought in to command NATO forces in Afghanistan but finds himself up against bureaucratic obstacles. The story delves into the complexities and absurdities of war, juxtaposing the battlefield with the politics and media coverage back home.
Cast and Characters:
- General Glen McMahon (Brad Pitt): The overconfident and out-of-touch leader assigned to end the war in Afghanistan.
- Greg Pulver (Anthony Michael Hall): McMahon's right-hand man, based on real-life General Michael Flynn.
- Sean Cullen (Topher Grace): A civilian press adviser.
- Ricky Ortega (Will Poulter): A young and naive Navy SEAL.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Stream: Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads
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- Free: None
Australia (AU):
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- Buy: None
- Free: None
United Kingdom (GB):
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- Buy: None
- Free: None
Germany (DE):
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- Buy: None
- Free: None
Brazil (BR):
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- Stream: Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads
- Buy: None
- Free: None
Spain (ES):
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- Stream: Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads
- Buy: None
- Free: None
France (FR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Stream: Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads
- Buy: None
- Free: None
Canada (CA):
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Stream: Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads
- Buy: None
- Free: None
Production Details:
Produced by Brad Pitt and his production company, Plan B Entertainment, "War Machine" was a significant investment for Netflix, with a budget of around $60 million.
The film was shot in various locations, including Abu Dhabi, which stood in for Afghanistan, and parts of Europe. The challenge for the production was to balance the satirical elements with the more serious aspects of war.
Reception and Awards:
Critical reception: "War Machine" received mixed reviews from critics. While Brad Pitt's performance and the film's satirical approach were praised, some felt that the movie struggled to maintain a consistent tone between its comedic and dramatic elements.
Audience reception: The film had a lukewarm reception among audiences, with some appreciating its unique take on the war genre and others feeling it missed the mark.
While "War Machine" didn't receive major awards, its bold approach to the subject matter and its critique of modern warfare were noted.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- Brad Pitt's character, General McMahon, has a distinct running style in the film. This was Pitt's idea, aiming to show the character's rigidity and determination.
- The film is one of the most expensive productions ever undertaken by Netflix.
- Tilda Swinton and Ben Kingsley have supporting roles in the film, adding to its star-studded cast.
- While the film is based on real events, it takes several liberties for comedic and dramatic effect, making it a blend of fact and fiction.
"War Machine" stands as a unique entry in the war film genre, offering a satirical look at the complexities of modern warfare, both on the battlefield and in the corridors of power.