CIFF; Wars (2022)

Another film i have watched for the Cheltenham IFF programme selection.

An overbearing army captain (is there any other kind) has a questionable relationship with a young female soldier who loses her gun (echoes of the wonderful la haine and magnolia) and is discharged. She returns, determined not to be defeated, and is again targeted by the captain.

The title 'Wars' refers to both combat action (of which there is very little) and the interactions of the two characters. The film is well made and the highlight is the performance by the girl. It is quietly very accomplished and effective, lots of closeups on her face which put me in mind slightly of son of saul. I found this very compelling and a worthy watch.