Kirsten Dunst Says Her Biggest Fear Filming ‘Civil War’ Was Looking Like She Didn’t Know What She Was Doing

A24’s latest film, ‘Civil War,’ featuring Kirsten Dunst, has made waves in the cinematic world. With a production budget of USD 50 million, it stands as A24’s largest project to date. The gamble paid off, as the film grossed over USD 121 million globally, becoming the studio’s second-highest-grossing film. Critics were generally impressed, noting its merits and the authenticity of its portrayal of a war photojournalist’s life.

Kirsten Dunst takes centre stage as Lee Smith, a respected war photojournalist from Colorado. However, stepping into the role wasn’t without its challenges. Dunst faced insecurities about accurately portraying a photojournalist, leading her to make a unique request to writer and director Alex Garland.

Also Read: Why Audiences Are Feeling Uncomfortable With ‘Civil War’

“Give me the camera,” Dunst insisted. She wanted to ensure her portrayal was as realistic as possible. Dunst explained to PEOPLE, “That was my biggest fear, actually, looking like I didn’t know what I was doing with the camera or holding it in a way that it wasn’t like a part of my body.”

Garland aimed for authenticity, enlisting still photographer Murray Close to work closely with Dunst and co-star Cailee Spaeny. Close noted that in many films, actors’ inexperience with cameras is often evident, but this was something they were determined to avoid in ‘Civil War.’

Dunst shared insights into a pivotal moment for her character. In a dramatic scene towards the movie’s climax, Lee sacrifices herself to protect fellow photojournalist Jessie, played by Cailee Spaeny, during a shootout at the White House. The scene’s ambiguity about who shot Lee was clarified by Dunst in an interview with Variety: “It was definitely fired from the president’s Oval Office.”

She elaborated on Lee’s ability to read soldiers’ signals, a skill crucial for survival in such dangerous situations. Lee’s experience allowed her to move safely, a skill that Jessie’s character had yet to develop.