Exploring ‘Eddington’: Ari Aster’s Polarizing Take on America’s Divides

NEW YORK (AP) — Ari Aster had a simple reminder on a Post-it note while working on “Eddington”: “Remember the phones.”

This film, set against the backdrop of the pandemic, delves into how technology affects our connections. In the fictional town of Eddington, residents become increasingly detached, their realities warped by the internet and social media. Aster remarks, “We forget how strange our world has become since we started carrying the internet in our pockets.”

Expecting the unexpected is Aster’s trademark. His previous films, like “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” explore deep fears and anxieties, making him a natural fit to address the chaotic American landscape in his latest project.

“Eddington,” released by A24, tackles sharp divisions in the U.S. The story features a feuding sheriff and mayor as they clash over issues like mask mandates and social justice. Aster believes avoiding these topics would be absurd: “I need work that addresses our current reality. We’re in uncharted territory.”

The film has sparked polarizing reactions since its premiere at Cannes. Critics are divided on Aster’s approach, with some suggesting it leans too hard on leftist satire. Aster contests this perception, emphasizing that both sides in the film have flaws. “Self-reflection is key. How can we move forward otherwise?”

He began writing “Eddington” amid the turbulence of June 2020, wanting to capture a growing sense of disconnection. The film blends Western motifs with modern technology, presenting smartphones as contemporary weapons.

Aster acknowledges that Hollywood often shies away from politically charged topics. Yet, A24 has championed films like “Civil War,” showing a commitment to exploring societal discord. Aster’s screenplay resonated with stars Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal, both seeing the film as an opportunity for empathy in the midst of a fragmented society.

Reflecting on today’s political stage, Aster wishes he could have injected more intensity into “Eddington” if made after the latest administration changes. “We’re in a time of total obscenity,” he states.

The film aims to spark discussion. Its second half shifts to a darker tone, mirroring the chaotic landscape. Aster himself grapples with conveying a coherent narrative while addressing the complexities of modern life.

Despite mixed reviews, “Eddington” highlights the need for films that engage with today’s issues rather than sidestepping them. Aster feels a deep sense of loss about our current state. He’s keen to explore how we can reconnect, asking, “What would an olive branch look like? How do we engage again?”

In a world rife with division, Aster’s work pushes us to confront uncomfortable truths. As challenges mount, films like “Eddington” may remind us that acknowledging our reality is the first step in bridging the gaps between us.



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