Alex Garland’s highly-anticipated dystopian film “Civil War” finally hit theaters over the April 12-14 weekend, sparking speculation and assumptions among moviegoers. Despite initial expectations that the film would attract more liberal viewers, it surprised many by drawing an equal split between conservative and liberal ticket buyers.
Produced by indie film powerhouse A24, “Civil War” intentionally avoided leaning in any political direction, causing controversy among some liberals. The decision seemed to pay off, as the film opened to a better-than-expected $25.7 million, setting a new record for A24. Detailed polling data revealed that the film resonated well with audiences in both blue and red states.
Interestingly, high-grossing markets included conservative-leaning cities like Phoenix, Kansas City, and Dallas, while liberal-leaning markets such as Portland showed an over-index. The film also attracted a significant number of military “adjacent” ticket buyers in markets like Denver, Kansas City, and Phoenix.
Kansas City boasted the oldest audience, with 55 percent of ticket buyers being 35 or older. Viewers were drawn to the film’s political dystopian storyline, as well as its action-packed scenes and appeal as an indie film.
The audience skewed heavily male, in line with the breakdown for an action movie. “Civil War” follows a wartime photojournalist and her colleagues navigating a torn United States amid authoritarian rule, providing a gripping and thought-provoking viewing experience for moviegoers.
A rival studio executive praised the film’s performance in top-grossing markets like Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, and San Francisco, solidifying “Civil War” as a must-see film for audiences across the political spectrum.
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