War Machine: Living or Dead?

About War Machine

"War Machine" is a satirical war comedy-drama film directed by David Michôd and starring Brad Pitt, released on Netflix in 2017. The film is loosely based on the non-fiction book "The Operators" by Michael Hastings, which details the events surrounding General Stanley McChrystal's command of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.

Pitt plays the fictional General Glen McMahon, a caricature of McChrystal, who is tasked with winning the war in Afghanistan. McMahon is portrayed as a delusional and out-of-touch leader, surrounded by a team of sycophants and yes-men, who are more concerned with their own careers than the success of the mission.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising Pitt's performance and the film's satirical tone, while others criticized its uneven pacing and lack of focus. Rolling Stone's Peter Travers gave the film a positive review, calling it "a biting satire that skewers the absurdity of modern warfare and the hubris of American military leadership."

Despite its flaws, "War Machine" is a thought-provoking and entertaining film that offers a unique perspective on the war in Afghanistan and the military-industrial complex. It is a must-watch for fans of political satire and those interested in the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

References:

- Travers, Peter. "War Machine Review: Brad Pitt Goes Runaway-General Gonzo in Over-the-Top Satire." Rolling Stone, 25 May 2017, https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/movie-reviews/war-machine-review-brad-pitt-goes-runaway-general-gonzo-in-over-the-top-satire-195204/.

- "War Machine (2017)." Rotten Tomatoes, https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/war_machine_2017.