Ari Aster, the visionary behind Hereditary and Midsommar, is back with Eddington, a film that's already stirring buzz for its bold blend of pandemic politics and western grit. The first look at Joaquin Phoenix in the film has surfaced online, and it's clear this isn't your typical cowboy flick. With a star-studded cast and a script dripping with 2020-era divisiveness, Eddington is shaping up to be one of the most provocative films of the year.
The Story: A Pandemic Western with a Political Edge
Set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Eddington is a western that doesn't shy away from the polarizing issues of our time. The story centers on Sheriff Joe Cross (Joaquin Phoenix) and his rivalry with local mayor Ted Garcia (Pedro Pascal). Sparks fly when Cross decides to run for mayor after refusing to wear a mask at a grocery store—a decision that sets off a chain of violent and politically charged events.
The script is packed with references to contemporary figures like Donald Trump, Anthony Fauci, and Tucker Carlson, weaving a tapestry of modern-day tensions. It's a risky move, but if anyone can pull it off, it's Aster, whose films often walk the line between brilliance and controversy.
The Cast: A Stellar Ensemble
Aster has assembled an all-star cast for Eddington. Joaquin Phoenix, fresh off his Oscar-winning turn in Joker, leads the pack as Sheriff Joe Cross. Emma Stone, Pedro Pascal, Austin Butler, and Clifton Collins Jr. round out the ensemble, promising a dynamic mix of performances. With such talent on board, the film is poised to deliver both emotional depth and explosive drama.
Behind the Camera: A Masterful Team
Cinematographer Darius Khondji, known for his work on Se7en and Uncut Gems, is lensing the film. His ability to create hauntingly beautiful visuals makes him the perfect match for Aster's dark, atmospheric storytelling. Add in A24's track record of producing bold, auteur-driven films, and Eddington has all the ingredients of a cinematic triumph.
Cannes Bound?
Rumors suggest Eddington will be submitted to the Cannes Film Festival. While its acceptance isn't guaranteed, the film's bold narrative and high-profile cast make it a strong contender. If it does premiere at Cannes, expect it to dominate headlines and spark heated debates.
Why This Matters
Ari Aster has built a reputation for pushing boundaries, and Eddington seems to be no exception. By blending the western genre with pandemic politics, he's tackling themes that are both timely and timeless. The film's exploration of division, power, and violence feels like a mirror held up to our current moment, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of art and society.
Ari Aster's Eddington is shaping up to be a bold, unflinching exploration of our fractured world. With Joaquin Phoenix leading a stellar cast and Darius Khondji behind the camera, the film promises to be as visually stunning as it is thematically provocative. While its heavy-handed political references might alienate some viewers, Aster's track record suggests he'll handle the material with the nuance and artistry it deserves. Will Eddington be his next masterpiece, or will its divisive themes overshadow its cinematic brilliance? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: this is a film that demands to be seen—and debated.
Do you think Eddington's blend of pandemic politics and western tropes will resonate with audiences, or is it too soon to tackle such divisive themes on the big screen?
