“War for Barsoom” (2025) revives the mythic spirit of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Martian saga with a renewed sense of urgency and scale, positioning itself as both an epic continuation and a tonal evolution of the Barsoom universe. The film opens on a Mars ravaged not only by war but by fading hope, where ancient cities crumble and once-proud civilizations stand on the brink of extinction. From the outset, the story frames its conflict as inevitable, a final struggle for the soul of a dying world.

John Carter returns as a battle-worn hero whose legend has grown heavier with time. No longer driven purely by adventure, he is haunted by the consequences of past victories and the fragile peace that followed. The film deepens his character by exploring his internal conflict between being a warrior forged by Earth and a symbol of destiny for Barsoom. His bond with the planet feels more personal than ever, grounding the cosmic scale of the story in human emotion.

At the heart of the narrative is a sweeping war that draws together rival city-states, ancient races, and forgotten armies. Political intrigue plays a significant role, as alliances are forged out of desperation rather than trust. The antagonistic forces are portrayed not as simple conquerors, but as believers in a brutal philosophy: that Barsoom must be reborn through destruction. This ideological clash gives the war a thematic depth beyond spectacle.

Visually, “War for Barsoom” is ambitious and richly textured. The landscapes of Mars feel vast and hostile, yet hauntingly beautiful, with crimson deserts, floating ruins, and colossal battlefields that emphasize the planet’s alien grandeur. Action scenes are intense and kinetic, but the film wisely balances them with quieter moments that allow the world and its cultures to breathe.

The supporting characters, particularly the Martian warriors and leaders, are given more narrative weight this time. Dejah Thoris emerges as a commanding presence, not merely a figure of royalty but a strategic mind and emotional anchor. Her dynamic with Carter reflects the broader theme of shared sacrifice and leadership in times of collapse.

As the film approaches its climax, the cost of war becomes undeniable. Victory is portrayed as complex and painful, marked by loss rather than triumph. The final act leans into tragedy and resolve, reinforcing the idea that saving a world often means surrendering personal peace.

Ultimately, “War for Barsoom” is an epic meditation on loyalty, survival, and legacy. It expands the Barsoom mythos with confidence, delivering a grand science-fantasy war story that feels both timeless and resonant, while reminding viewers that even legends are shaped by the worlds they choose to fight for.