Unpacking Eddington (2025): A Gripping Neo-Western That Challenges Our View of Recent History

COVID-19 changed a lot, especially in cinema, but filmmakers have hesitated to explore its effects in their work. Movies like “28 Days Later” and “Barbie” hint at pandemic themes, but diving deep into the trauma of 2020 remains challenging. Unlike after the Vietnam War, when films like “Apocalypse Now” emerged, the lasting impact of COVID is still unfolding.

Ari Aster’s film “Eddington” provides a unique lens on this new reality. Set in a fictional New Mexico town just months after the pandemic, the movie follows Sheriff Joe Cross, played by Joaquin Phoenix. Frustrated with state-imposed safety rules, Joe clashes with Mayor Ted Garcia, portrayed by Pedro Pascal. He believes the town needs to “free each others’ hearts” and runs for office to push his message.

Aster’s storytelling shines through in the film. His knack for observing human nature adds an unsettling tension to “Eddington.” As characters deal with the fallout of lockdowns, the narrative reveals how crisis impacts minds and behaviors. When the media focuses on conflict, people become defined by their anger and readiness for violence. The film starkly highlights how easily society can fall apart.

“Eddington” takes a critical look at recent history, showing that the pandemic didn’t create issues; it intensified them. Conspiracy theories flourished during this time, and divisions within families grew wider. Characters in the film often deceive each other and themselves, leading to tragic consequences.

Visually, “Eddington” pays homage to classic westerns, particularly John Ford’s work. Aster lets the camera linger on tense moments until they become uncomfortable, successfully engaging viewers. The film captures a specific time, breaking down complex social dynamics without becoming overcrowded.

The film’s main character, Sheriff Cross, diverges from traditional heroic roles. Unlike John Wayne’s iconic characters, he is shallow and increasingly dangerous, using his power to mask his insecurities. Phoenix’s portrayal is haunting; Joe’s desperate quest for moral clarity highlights his flaws, making it difficult to sympathize with him, even as we see his struggles are rooted in real challenges.

Supporting characters, like Emma Stone’s Louise and Austin Butler’s conspiracy theorist Vernon, offer a broad view of society. Their dynamics reflect how misinformation took hold during the 2020s, making the characters feel all too real.

There’s humor woven throughout “Eddington,” as Aster points out the absurdity of ideologies that emerged during isolation. He critiques the reliance on slogans and simplistic narratives, revealing a deeper cultural truth that often gets overlooked. The film subtly addresses issues like police incompetence and the exploitation of marginalized groups, making it both engaging and thought-provoking.

Overall, “Eddington” is a significant exploration of our times—marked by both cynicism and undeniable insight. While the world grapples with the effects of the pandemic, this film captures the urgent need for honesty and understanding, despite the discomfort it might bring.

For more insights into Aster’s unique filmmaking style, consider checking this IndieWire interview that delves into his creative vision.

Learn more about “Eddington” on IMDb or visit its Rotten Tomatoes page for ratings.

**Eddington (2025) Cast:** Joaquin Phoenix, Pedro Pascal, Luke Grimes, Deirdre O’Connell, Micheal Ward, Austin Butler, Emma Stone. **In Theaters:** July 18, Runtime: 2h 28m, Genre: Comedy/Drama/Western.

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