‘Atonement’ Review: Boyd Holbrook and Hiam Abbass in a Different Kind of War Movie — an Affecting Drama of Survivor Anguish and Combat Guilt
The film 'Atonement' explores the aftermath of a tragic incident during the Iraq War, focusing on the emotional turmoil faced by both civilians and soldiers. It highlights the chaos of combat and the devastating impact of civilian casualties on families and military personnel alike. The story follows a soldier grappling with guilt and the consequences of his actions in a war zone.
- ▪The film depicts a chaotic battle scene in Iraq, where an Iraqi family is caught in the crossfire.
- ▪A grandmother signals for peace, but her family members are tragically killed by gunfire.
- ▪The narrative shifts ten years later to follow a soldier dealing with the psychological aftermath of his actions during the war.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Home Film Reviews May 29, 2026 7:16am PT ‘Atonement’ Review: Boyd Holbrook and Hiam Abbass in a Different Kind of War Movie — an Affecting Drama of Survivor Anguish and Combat Guilt Reed Van Dyk's first feature explores the aftermath of an Iraq War tragedy. By Owen Gleiberman Plus Icon Owen Gleiberman Chief Film Critic @OwenGleiberman Latest ‘Backrooms’ Review: Experimental Horror Comes Out of the Margins in Kane Parsons’ YouTube-Gone-A24 Head Trip 2 days ago Best of Cannes 2026: 20 Critics’ Picks From This Year’s Festival 7 days ago ‘Maverick — The Epic Adventures of David Lean’ Review: How the Director of ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ Expressed His Turbulent Life in His Grand Visions 7 days ago See All Courtesy of Cannes Film Festival Early on in “Atonement,” there’s a battle so mired in the…
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