The politics surrounding the American military invasion of Iraq have evolved over the past two decades. The current president has chosen to deny his initial support for the invasion, opting instead to claim he was always opposed to it. Despite the bipartisan consensus condemning the invasion, Hailey Gates manages to effectively satirize the topic in her debut feature film “Atropia.”
For those seeking a simple criticism of Bush-era jingoism, “Atropia” may come across as evasive. Gates, however, does not waste time preaching to the already convinced. With widespread agreement that the Iraq War was a mistake, the film’s critique delves deeper into the sociological aspects that enabled the justification for American military actions. The central theme of “Atropia” is that war is a form of show business, highlighting the broader structures that facilitate American military interventions.
The film is set in the real-life training facility of Medina Wasl, located in the Mojave desert, which replicates Middle Eastern villages for military training purposes. Leveraging Hollywood’s proximity, the facility employs top technicians in various aspects of production to create a realistic experience for soldiers. However, the film’s protagonist, Fayruz, played by Alia Shawkat, challenges the notion of participating in the destruction of her ancestral homeland solely for career advancement.
Fayruz’s story takes an unexpected turn when a veteran fresh from Iraq, Tanner (played by Callum Turner), assumes the role of an insurgent in the training scenario. The film’s narrative explores the personal and professional dilemmas faced by the characters, ultimately questioning the blurred lines between reality and simulation in modern warfare.
“Atropia” skillfully navigates between satire and social commentary, using humor to shed light on the absurdity of war as a form of performance. Gates’ film serves as a reflection of the American psyche, drawing attention to the country’s participation in a collective delusion regarding conflict and patriotism.
Overall, “Atropia” offers a unique perspective on the complexities of war and national identity, challenging viewers to reconsider their preconceived notions about military intervention. With its blend of satire and wit, the film provides a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole.
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