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Find out moreOn October 9, 2025, the Russian premiere of Ari Aster's new film "Eddington" will take place, five months after its debut screening at the Cannes Film Festival. Ari Aster is known as a master of horror; his films "Hereditary" and "Midsummer" have gained cult status among fans of the genre. This time, Aster decided to experiment with the Western genre, with a comedic twist. The film stars world-famous actors Joaquin Phoenix, Pedro Pascal, Emma Stone, and Austin Butler. Despite its stellar cast, the film received rather average reviews from critics. Film critic Elena Bolotnova, who has been following Aster's work since his early shorts, carefully watched Eddington and shares her impressions.
- What's really going on in the New Mexico town?
- Why did Ari Aster overstep his love of horror?
- Where is there to laugh in this film?
- How can police officers, environmental activists, and nationalists get along in the same town (spoiler - they can't).
Chaos of Events
In 2020, unrest erupted in the town of Eddington: a mayoral election is on the horizon, and the raging pandemic has become an instrument of pressure on citizens. Sheriff Joe Cross, played by Joaquin Phoenix, openly ignores the rules imposed by Mayor Ted Garcia (Pedro Pascal). He refuses to wear a mask or maintain social distancing. One of the reasons for his protest is his asthma, which makes wearing a mask difficult. Furthermore, Joe believes the mask ban discriminates against ordinary Eddington residents. He believes Garcia is a bad person, and his resentment is compounded by the fact that the mayor seduced Joe's wife, Louise (Emma Stone), in their youth. This tense atmosphere in the town reflects not only personal conflicts but also deeper social issues related to the pandemic and political intrigue.
With tensions in the town growing, Joe decides to run for mayor. He is confident he understands the needs of the townspeople and can ensure transparency and safety for everyone. First and foremost, Joe intends to expose Ted's shady dealings to inform the public of what is happening. However, his colleagues are not actively supporting his campaign, and his wife decides to leave him for another man. Joe faces challenges but remains determined in his fight for the mayor's seat.
Director Ari Aster immerses the viewer in an atmosphere of chaos and madness. His work leaves room for everything—even aliens won't be a surprise. At first, it seems like a traditional story about a brave sheriff awaits us, but the events of 2020 bring their own twists to the plot. This film offers a unique take on the genre, combining elements of thriller and drama, making it truly memorable.
In today's society, it's important to recognize how social and cultural changes affect interactions between people. For example, supporting a woman in a conflict situation can be perceived as insufficient, especially in the context of the Me Too movement, where her opinion takes precedence. A man who decides to stand up for her may face a backlash, making such a stance risky.
Also, appointing an African American to a new position amid social tensions caused by tragic events such as the murder of George Floyd can be perceived as an attempt to please society, which creates additional complications.
Furthermore, interfering with protest movements, even with the intention of restoring order, can be perceived as aggression. It is important to understand that such actions can be misinterpreted and lead to public condemnation.
Therefore, in the context of modern social dynamics, it is necessary to consider the context and consequences of your actions to avoid misunderstandings and conflict.
In the modern world, Sheriff Joe Cross faces a midlife crisis that forces him to reconsider his life principles. He does not realize that his traditional values and approaches do not correspond to the current reality. This internal contradiction plunges him into deep reflections on the purpose and meaning of life, which makes his character especially interesting for analysis in the context of the changes taking place in society.
Aster enhances the metaphor of tangled relationships by adding small details that highlight the surrounding chaos. For example, a data center being built near Eddington with the support of the mayor is called SolidGoldMagikarp. The name is also used to describe situations where Chat GPT provides a random answer to a simple question. These instances lead to a chain of unrelated responses, perfectly reflecting the processes unfolding in Eddington.
The network, while seemingly imaginary, has a real impact on the lives of Eddington residents. The diverse beliefs and views of the locals collide, ultimately leading to disastrous consequences. This begs the question: has this chaos always existed in the town, or has the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a new reality? This question remains open to debate.
In the film, something new happens every minute, which creates the effect of a dynamic ensemble drama. However, this also leads to chaotic movement of the characters, whose actions often lack clear motivation. They act spontaneously, following their nature. The youth are depicted as a rebellious force, while the sheriff, representing conservative views, constantly clashes with those around him. His political incompetence underscores his image, while his young wife, in turn, strives to leave for a charismatic guru, adding another layer of tension to the plot. This film explores themes of youth rebellion and generational conflict, showing how personal and social contradictions shape characters and their destinies.
Louise's actions are logically explained. Her husband, for whom she no longer has the same feelings, used her personal tragedy to manipulate voters. This creates a natural desire for Louise to leave the relationship, especially if someone new appears on the horizon with charisma and kindness.
All the characters presented on the screen have a certain amount of madness. At times, one gets the feeling that their behavior might indicate mental illness, so eccentric are both the characters themselves and their actions. However, the overall chaos of events obscures certain details: against this backdrop of madness, the characters reveal themselves to be quite neurotypical, and familiar everyday conflicts come to the fore.
There's a sense of chaos under the slogan "Haters gonna hate," which is quite tedious to follow. This chaos is likely a result of Astaire's experimental approach. The director always strives for innovation, and more often than not, his efforts are crowned with success. However, in this case, this did not happen.
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Thrillers of 2025: expected new releases in the genre
In 2025, viewers can expect many exciting thrillers that promise to keep them on the edge of their seats and surprise them with unexpected plot twists. Filmmakers continue to experiment with genre, offering new stories and fresh ideas. Among the anticipated new releases are films that have already attracted attention thanks to strong casts and engaging scripts. Filmgoers will be able to enjoy both psychological thrillers and complex crime stories. Directors renowned for their mastery of creating a tense atmosphere are once again ready to delight audiences. Each film promises a unique approach to exploring themes related to human nature, moral dilemmas, and social conflict. Thrillers scheduled for release in 2025 are sure to be the subject of discussion among critics and audiences, as their plots will address pressing contemporary issues. Some films are expected to be continuations of successful franchises, while others will offer entirely new stories full of intrigue and unexpected endings.
Stay tuned for new thrillers in 2025 to avoid missing the most exciting premieres and gripping plots that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last minute.
Chaos Approach
"Eddington" is the fourth feature film directed by Ari Aster. Throughout his career, Aster has worked closely with A24, which has helped him earn a reputation as a visionary in genre cinema. In 2018, his debut film, the horror film Hereditary, was released under the A24 banner, receiving critical and audience acclaim. Hereditary became one of the most talked-about projects of the year and significantly influenced the increased interest in the horror genre among a wider audience. Post-horror films gained popularity, and Hereditary confidently established itself among the scariest films. While it's difficult to truly call this film the "scariest," for viewers unfamiliar with the genre, its release was a true revelation. Horror films have proven not only attractive, but also capable of addressing serious social and psychological issues.
The following year, Aster again demonstrated his mastery, presenting "Midsummer" - a post-horror about a young girl who finds herself in an unusual community during the summer solstice festival. Reminiscent of the classic "The Wicker Man," the film captured the attention of genre fans, while the general public was impressed by its visual aesthetic and unexpected moments of fear based on simple jump scares. "Midsummer" became a significant contribution to modern horror, exploring themes of community and individuality within the context of an eerie atmosphere.
Aster established himself as one of the leading directors in the horror film industry. In 2023, he amazed audiences with his new film "The Fears of Bo," a dramedy about the tumultuous events in the life of a young man named Bo. The film became a significant event in Aster's career, demonstrating his unique approach to the genre and his ability to combine elements of drama and comedy.
The surreal tragicomedy with Joaquin Phoenix caused controversy among critics: some considered the film a complete failure, while others noted that Aster is one of the most brilliant young directors modern times. Despite the box office failure, it became clear that Astaire was striving to move beyond the horror genre and explore new creative horizons.
Chaos of the Genre
The genre of the film "Eddington" is the Western. This traditional American genre about cowboys, sheriffs, and exciting shootouts seemed to have long lost its relevance. The Western experienced its "death hour" several times: after its heyday in the 1940s, after the success of spaghetti Westerns, and during the period when mass action cinema became popular. In modern cinema, only Quentin Tarantino is associated with successful Westerns, but his works occupy a special place and differ from the classic canons of the genre. It is important to note that the Western, despite its crises, continues to be a significant part of cinema, attracting audiences with its unique atmosphere and inimitable style.
The Western niche is becoming increasingly attractive for new projects. This is the ideal time to create a modern Western. There have been successful examples of Neo-Westerns before, such as Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017) and The Sinners (2025). These films transformed the traditional genre, turning it into an ode to individual rights and freedoms. Director Aster clearly strives to take a place among the reformers of the genre, creating a work that can be classified as "Neo-Western". This approach opens up new horizons for interpreting classic themes in a modern context.
Aster effectively uses key markers of the Western genre. The action takes place in a small town in the Southwest, where an atmosphere of tension reigns. The main character is a sheriff who appears arrogant, but at first glance, is fair. The appearance of rioters creates additional problems for local residents. The mayor, it seems, was supposed to be the cowboy who would protect the interests of the citizens. The theme of capturing and liberating territories fits perfectly into the traditional plot structure of the Western, which makes the story exciting and relevant for fans of the genre.
In classic Westerns, the plot develops linearly, and Characters are clearly divided into good and bad. In modern Westerns, this situation changes: the themes become more complex, and the heroes' goals acquire new ethical nuances. Issues of discrimination and oppression are at the center of such stories. If Aster had attempted to create a film with a relevant moral assessment in the spirit of classic Westerns, audiences might have perceived it as excessive moralizing and pomposity. However, by retaining elements of comedy, such Westerns remain relevant and interesting to audiences.
The Western is traditionally a genre blend, combining elements of epic action, comedy, and touching melodrama. This genre always finds room for a variety of storylines and characters. Director Aster, in his film "Eddington," attempts to create a black comedy, but the result is not very funny. The themes of the middle man's crisis evoke empathy rather than laughter. Moments that should evoke a smile instead evoke empathy for the characters, leading to a mixed reception.
The text fails to evoke a smile when, for example, a sergeant is accidentally promoted, and it's perceived as a funny coincidence that a black man occupies the new position. Austin Butler's character, Vernon Jefferson Peake, is a cult figure who, while seemingly meant to be comical, actually fails to stand out amid the general madness. This emphasizes the seriousness and absurdity of what is happening, creating a contrast between the audience's expectations and reality.
Can we say that Astaire was unable to realize his signature western? Hardly. He created a quality film that adheres to the basics of the genre, but it cannot be called innovative.
Chaos of Opinions
The problem probably lies in the desire to express too many ideas at once. Aster wrote the script himself and perhaps needed external revision. At a certain point in the film, the viewer witnesses a clash of various opinions, where Sheriff Joe is at the center of the conflict, who is against everyone. This creates tension and highlights the diversity of opinions, which makes the plot more layered and intriguing.
Aster is engaged in attempts to diagnose people who already have their own medical opinions. Each of them has their own unique opinion, even if it is not substantiated and has no scientific basis. Disputes about who is right become a constant occurrence, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and conflict. This emphasizes the importance of a clear diagnosis and professional opinion in the field of medicine, as well as the need for a critical approach to health information.
In one episode of the series, Joe and Ted discuss whether a homeless person can enter a bar. At first glance, it's a dispute about rules, but in reality, they are trying to determine who owns the property on which the bar is located. Their discussion goes beyond simply clarifying areas of responsibility; it is important for them to demonstrate their beliefs and emphasize that their positions are radically different from those of their opponent. This pattern is repeated throughout the film, whether it is disagreements between police officers and young people over protests or a discussion of privilege. This conflict dynamic illustrates deeper social issues, raising important questions about space and social justice.
Joe Cross seems to be the most relatable character in Eddington's work, yet the author barely reveals his personality. Joe has a father who also served as a sheriff, and his wife is a caring and kind woman. They have a mother-in-law with eccentric traits who lives in their home. Joe embodies the archetype of the sheriff, standing for good and against evil. It's unclear why Joe decided to become the new mayor. By making this spontaneous decision, he created a trap for himself. Now, to achieve his goals, he is forced to resort to strange and sometimes terrifying actions. Joe strives to follow his political beliefs, but they also raise questions. He advocates for the rights of ordinary citizens and their freedom, but he judges everyone by his own personal experience. For example, his difficulty breathing through a mask due to asthma does not justify his disregard for the rules or his calls for similar actions from others. This highlights that he is projecting his own experiences more than truly caring about the well-being of those around him.
Mayor Ted Garcia is a complex figure. At first glance, he appears to be a staunch liberal, which is part of his public image. However, behind closed doors, he displays a completely different face. His primary concern is not solving the city's pressing problems, but rather ensuring that his son, Brian, does not fall into the wrong environment, which could negatively impact the mayor's reputation. As Brian experiences a series of identity crises, he begins to feel a greater connection with the protesters than with his own father. This conflict between father and son reflects deeper issues troubling society and challenges traditional notions of family values and political responsibility.
The film features a variety of protesters with varying agendas, but the individual motivations of each character seem strange and inconsistent. For example, even the Nazi terrorists in this story attack white people, which raises confusion. What is really going on in this city? The plot raises important questions about social tension and identity, forcing viewers to consider the causes of protests and ideological differences.
The film's ending ultimately shatters any hopes of achieving any kind of balance of power. It seems that all good people have given up, and chaos reigns in Eddington, with a vegetable-like figure becoming mayor, and no one cares. Perhaps this is precisely what Ari Aster was aiming for—chaos in a closed and controlled universe. However, the question arises: how do we deal with the fact that this image all too readily reflects contemporary reality? The film reflects on social and political issues, highlighting how easily society can lose control of itself.
Reading is an important aspect of our lives, contributing to the development of thinking and improving skills. It is not only a source of knowledge, but also an opportunity to enjoy fiction. Regular reading of books, articles and other materials helps to broaden horizons and improve the level of education. It is also worth noting that reading helps improve concentration and memory, which is especially important in today's information-rich world. By devoting time to reading, you invest in your future by developing critical thinking and creativity. Don't miss the opportunity to enrich your life with new knowledge and experiences.
Emma Stone: How She Won Our Hearts
Emma Stone is a talented actress whose charm and skill have won the love of audiences around the world. Her career began with small roles, but she soon became one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood. Thanks to her outstanding acting skills and charm, Emma was able to create many memorable images that left a mark on the hearts of viewers.
Her striking roles in films such as "La La Land", "Underworld", and "The Last Jedi". and "Superbad" demonstrated not only her acting skills, but also her ability to convey a wide range of emotions. Emma Stone is a symbol of modern cinema, and her contribution to the art of cinema is invaluable.
Furthermore, Emma attracts attention not only with her talent, but also with her stylish lifestyle. She is actively involved in social initiatives and supports important social issues, which makes her even more attractive to fans.
Thus, Emma Stone is not just an actress, but a true icon who inspires and delights viewers with her work and life position.
