A satirical war comedy starring Hollywood A-lister Brad Pitt is causing a stir on Netflix, leaving audiences deeply divided. The 2017 film War Machine has been labelled everything from a 'frustrating' disappointment to an 'underrated gem', sparking passionate debate among subscribers.
A Star-Studded Project That Missed the Mark?
Despite the formidable presence of Oscar-winner Brad Pitt and an impressive supporting cast including Sir Ben Kingsley, Tilda Swinton, and Topher Grace, the film failed to capture widespread acclaim. War Machine launched directly on Netflix on 26 May 2017, and was met with lukewarm critical and audience scores. It holds a 48% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, with a notably lower audience score of just 35%.
The film, written and directed by David Michôd, is a fictionalised adaptation of Michael Hastings' non-fiction book 'The Operators: The Wild and Terrifying Inside Story of America's War in Afghanistan'. It centres on a charismatic, four-star general, Glenn McMahon (played by Pitt), whose command of NATO forces in Afghanistan is derailed by a journalist's explosive expose.
Why Did Pitt Take on the Role?
In a 2017 interview, Brad Pitt explained his personal motivation for the project. He stated he wanted to highlight the true cost of conflict, particularly on young soldiers. "One of the reasons I wanted to make this film is you see young soldiers permanently damaged, mentally and physically," Pitt told People. He connected it to a father's perspective, arguing that supporting troops requires a "true assessment" of the human expenditure of war.
However, many initial viewers found the film's execution lacking. One critic echoed the protagonist's frustration, quipping: "Pitt's General spends most of the flick growing increasingly frustrated that nothing is happening - and I know the feeling." Another bluntly summarised: "War is Hell, but War Machine is frustrating."
A Surprising Reappraisal from Modern Audiences
Despite its rocky start, War Machine is now finding a new, appreciative audience on Netflix. Many contemporary viewers argue its satirical take on military bureaucracy and failed foreign policy has become more relevant with time. One five-star review from 2025 noted: "This movie has become more relevant in 2025 than it did when it first came out... This is an underrated film showing how personality complexes shape foreign policy for the worse."
Other fans have been emotionally moved, calling it a "poignant satirical drama" that explores tragic policy decisions. Praise also highlights the film's "witty and darkly humorous" tone and its "top flight cast", with some declaring it a hidden "gem" in Pitt's filmography.
The film's journey from critical misfire to a subject of earnest debate underscores how streaming platforms can reframe a movie's legacy. War Machine is available to stream now on Netflix, inviting UK viewers to decide for themselves whether it's a forgotten misstep or a prescient masterpiece.
