As of September 17, 2025, Warfare is sitting at the top of the viewer count (via FlixPatrol). In a surprising unfolding of events, ever since the release of this film starring Will Poulter on HBO Max on September 12, 2025, it seems to have maintained its spot in the top 10 in terms of viewership.
Based on real-life events, this Alex Garland-directed movie seems to have connected with the audience on a deeper level than many understood, in conjunction with the star’s performances. Thus, we discuss the success of the film below.
Will Poulter’s Performances Have Taken Over the Industry
While he may have been a well-known arthouse/indie star back in the early days of his career, Will Poulter truly became a mainstream name when he made his appearance as Colin Ritman in Netflix’s Black Mirror. In the episode titled “Bandersnatch” (which has been removed from the platform), his performance truly showed his range as an actor.
Next came his performance in Ari Aster’s Midsommar alongside Florence Pugh, where he played an arrogant, cynical, and deeply unlikeable character in the film to perfection, further cementing his skills. But his biggest role was yet to come, which would be playing Adam Warlock in James Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
While it may have been nominated for the Oscars in the Visual Effects category, performances by the cast, especially Poulter, were also heavily appreciated by both fans and critics alike. His performance balanced innocence, power, and comedy, which cemented a long-term MCU future for the star.
And now, with his amazing portrayal of Erik in Warfare, as well as in the TV series The Bear, it’s no surprise that people may start to consider him the next big thing in Hollywood.
Why Warfare Is Decimating the Competition on HBO Max
Just like any project undertaken by A24, Warfare doesn’t focus on an action-heavy spectacle, but shows the human aspect of war. It zeroes in on the psychological cost of combat, moral dilemmas, and the lived experiences of the soldiers, made even more impactful by co-director Ray Mendoza’s experiences during the Iraq War as a Navy SEAL (via Deadline).
Adding to it is Poulter’s performance as Erik, which balances toughness with deep emotional weight. It also uses the signature A24 direction and cinematography style in filmmaking, which often comes out with an arthouse aesthetic.
Along with being praised for its gritty realism and emotional depth, the subject of the Iraq War itself gives the audience a time for real-world reflection and insight into the conflict. The film explores themes of government deception, PTSD, and the morality of modern warfare, which especially resonate in today’s global climate.
Below is a table with more information on Warfare.
Have you watched Warfare? Tell us in the comments below.
Warfare is currently streaming on HBO Max (US).
