Ari Aster’s Eddington Gets Ovation at Cannes

Ari Aster’s film Eddington is set in New Mexico during May 2020, amid both the COVID-19 pandemic and nationwide protests, and centers on a tense standoff between a small-town sheriff (Joaquin Phoenix) and the town's progressive mayor (Pedro Pascal). The movie, featuring Emma Stone as a conspiracy-obsessed wife, Austin Butler as a cult leader, and Luke Grimes, explores deep political and social divisions, exacerbated by misinformation and social media. Premiering at Cannes, Eddington received a nearly seven-minute standing ovation, though critics remained divided over its provocative and satirical take on contemporary American anxieties. The story highlights escalating tensions that pit neighbors against each other, culminating in violent confrontations. The film is noted for its dark comedic tone and ambitious examination of distrust and power struggles during a turbulent period in recent U.S. history. Eddington is scheduled for U.S. theater release on July 18, distributed by A24.