Source: Variety

‘Eddington’ Review: Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal in Ari Aster’s Brazenly Provocative Western Thriller

Ari Aster’s newest film, “Eddington,” starring Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal, takes viewers on a hard-hitting journey through a dystopian landscape shaped by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Set against the backdrop of summer 2020, this Western thriller explores themes of societal collapse and individual morality, pushing the boundaries of traditional filmmaking.

Setting and Plot Overview

The film unfolds in the desolate town of Eddington, New Mexico, where the protagonist, Joe Cross (played by Joaquin Phoenix), serves as sheriff. Notably, he is one of the few inhabitants who refuse to wear a face mask, embodying a complex mix of defiance and ignorance regarding pandemic protocols. His character is portrayed not as a hero but rather as flawed and ineffectual, paving the way for a narrative deeply rooted in irony and satire.

Thematic Elements and Societal Commentary

“Eddington” tackles various pressing issues that have surfaced in the wake of the pandemic:

• Moral Absolutism: The film critiques the rise of performative activism, especially among self-righteous youth during the Black Lives Matter movement.
• Conspiracy Theories: It explores how conspiracy theories have infiltrated mainstream America, revealing the fragility of truth in a digital age.
• The Paranoid Society: The narrative reflects on the paranoia tied to gun culture and societal fears of pedophilia, linking them back to historical cases and movements.
• Cultural Schisms: Aster examines how ideological divisions have transformed personal relationships and community interactions.

As the film transitions into emotionally charged territory, it weaves a story that reflects the societal disarray of the United States during a time when many believe the country lost its collective sanity.

Character Dynamics and Performances

The relationship between Joe Cross and Ted Garcia (played by Pedro Pascal) is central to the film’s narrative arc. Both characters are entangled in a web of past scandals, notably a secret affair involving Joe’s wife, Louise (played by Emma Stone), which adds layers of tension and personal stakes to their political rivalry.

Viewers witness Joe’s deterioration under the weight of his responsibilities, grappling with suburban isolation exacerbated by the pandemic. His inability to navigate his marriage and his rivalry drives the narrative forward, making his character’s journey relatable yet profoundly unsettling.

Ari Aster’s Directorial Vision

Aster’s trademark style shines through in “Eddington.” The film navigates complex and provocative themes with deftness. Aster’s ability to blend humor with horror creates a disorienting experience, allowing audiences to ponder important societal questions while remaining entertained. His visual storytelling and character depth showcase an evolution from his previous works, moving towards a more accessible yet no less incisive style.

The Overall Experience

Running for two-and-a-half hours, “Eddington” promises not just a cinematic experience but a cultural commentary steeped in contemporary relevance. As Phoenix’s portrayal of Joe Cross digs into the depths of human frailty, audiences are left questioning the realities of their world, igniting discussions about freedom, culpability, and the direction of American society.

As articulated by critics, Ari Aster’s film is not merely a thriller; it operates as a mirror reflecting the tensions and failures of a nation under pressure, making it a subject of heated debate and intrigue.

Tags:

Joaquin Phoenix, Pedro Pascal, Eddington, Ari Aster, film review, COVID-19, societal commentary, Western thriller, Emma Stone, cultural critique