Alex Garland has emerged as one of Hollywood’s most influential directors and screenwriters. His journey began with crafting the screenplay for the acclaimed 28 Days Later, which paved the way for a successful career as a storyteller. Garland’s storytelling prowess continued with notable works such as Sunshine, Dredd, and Never Let Me Go, all of which garnered praise from critics. In an exciting development for 2025, Garland is set to reunite with director Danny Boyle to write the scripts for the anticipated 28 Years Later trilogy, with its debut film slated for release this summer.
It wasn’t until 2015 that Garland made his directorial debut with the sci-fi thriller Ex Machina, showcasing his exceptional skills behind the camera. This film presented a thought-provoking narrative about an android with hidden agendas and was warmly received by audiences and critics alike. Although he has only directed five films so far, each has left a significant impact on the cinematic landscape. His latest release, Civil War, became A24’s second-highest-grossing film ever, marking a high point in his burgeoning directorial career. Now, with another A24 production, Garland sets a new benchmark on Rotten Tomatoes.
Garland’s Latest Film Sets New Record on Rotten Tomatoes
Critics and Audiences Alike Praise Warfare’s Gripping Narrative
Garland’s first film of 2025, Warfare, has quickly achieved a remarkable score on Rotten Tomatoes. This compelling war drama recounts the harrowing tale of a group of American Navy SEALs whose surveillance operation spirals out of control in Iraq. Facing numerous threats and sustaining injuries, the team must unite in their fight for survival.
Currently, Warfare boasts an impressive audience score of 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on over 250 ratings. If this ranking holds, it will surpass Garland’s previously highest-rated film, Ex Machina, which achieved an 86% audience score. Additionally, Warfare claimed the title of Garland’s highest-rated film among critics, scoring a remarkable 95% based on 111 reviews. ScreenRant’s Marry Kessell rated it 7 out of 10 stars, lauding its intense storytelling and execution of action sequences.
A Look into Garland’s Mastery in Filmmaking
A Gripping Exploration of Survival and Brotherhood
Image via A24
It is no surprise that Warfare has resonated profoundly with audiences, reflecting Garland’s exceptional directorial vision. Actors have openly shared insights about their rigorous boot camp training, fostering a sense of camaraderie that translates brilliantly onto the screen amidst the chaos of warfare.
|
Top 5 Highest-Rated Alex Garland Movies |
Rotten Tomatoes Critical Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Warfare (2025) |
95% |
93% |
|
Ex Machina (2015) |
92% |
86% |
|
Annihilation (2018) |
88% |
67% |
|
28 Days Later (2003) |
87% |
85% |
|
Civil War (2024) |
81% |
69% |
While Warfare may not be my personal favorite from Garland’s repertoire, it stands as a significant addition to his remarkable filmography. Having followed his career since Dredd and Ex Machina, I have consistently appreciated his work, barring Men. Garland’s ability to craft compelling narratives makes him one of my favored screenwriters, and I eagerly anticipate his next directorial project coming soon.
Source: Rotten Tomatoes