Following its recent premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, Eddington has sparked a variety of reactions from audiences and critics alike. Directed by the talented Ari Aster, known for his previous works such as Hereditary and Midsommar, this Western film delves into the tension between a sheriff and a mayor in a New Mexico town, a scenario intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Scheduled for release on July 18, Eddington features a stellar cast, including Joaquin Phoenix—who previously collaborated with Aster on Beau Is Afraid—as well as Pedro Pascal, Emma Stone, Luke Grimes, Austin Butler, Deirdre O’Connell, and Michael Ward.
Film Festival Reception
Initial reviews of Eddington have been decidedly polarizing, with critics emphasizing diverse viewpoints on the film’s thematic exploration and Aster’s interpretation of the pandemic. After its Cannes debut, criticism ranged from pointed praise to sharp disapproval.
EDDINGTON isn’t just the definitive film about the pandemic, it may be the most unflinchingly accurate portrait yet of how deeply America has spiraled into paranoia, hysteria, and unapologetic selfishness. What begins as a damning political commentary morphs into a murder… pic.twitter.com/hfgaAswvsp — Matt Neglia @Cannes (@NextBestPicture) May 16, 2025
Matt Neglia of Next Best Picture commended the film for being “a new kind of horror for Aster,”while highlighting how it effectively portrays America today. This sentiment was echoed by another critic, @filmwithyas, who described it as a “slightly embellished (and hilarious) portrayal of the real hysteria”that plagued the nation during the pandemic.
EDDINGTON is a magnificently off-the-rails poison pill of a film that skitters around from reactionary satire to FIRST BLOOD chaos to deliver what might be the first and last ANTIFA farce. Bless Emma Stone, forever playing deeply traumatized wives stuck in New Mexico. #Cannes — Barry Hertz (@HertzBarry) May 16, 2025
Critics like Barry Hertz also shared positive feedback, labeling the film as a “magnificently off-the-rails”narrative. However, not all responses have been favorable.
I wish I had better news for you guys but Ari Aster’s Eddington went from my most anticipated film at Cannes to easily my biggest disappointment… It jumps from a Covid-western to political rivalry comedy, to crime thriller to OTT… pic.twitter.com/VUWgqG2URN — Luke Hearfield (@LukeHearfield) May 16, 2025
Luke Hearfield’s review illustrated discontent, highlighting that the film felt overly ambitious and criticized the underutilization of its cast. Filip Mańka echoed this sentiment, calling it “vacuous”with “meaningless sociopolitical references.”
Eddington was jam-packed full of plot twists and about as subtle as a sledgehammer… it’s a movie you won’t be able to stop talking about. (7/10) pic.twitter.com/x24DeAYMhq — Therese Lacson @ Cannes (@bamfpire) May 16, 2025
Despite the mixed reactions, Therese Lacson noted that the film would likely spark considerable discussion among viewers. Donald Clarke recognized its potential for controversy, classifying it as a “mischievously Swiftian satire”on American discontent.
Significance of Early Critic Reviews
Another Polarizing A24 Release
Eddington blends multiple genres while tackling complex themes, much like Aster’s previous film, Beau Is Afraid. This latest project reflects on societal disharmony and the challenging impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The movie’s teaser, released ahead of the festival, features Phoenix’s character navigating social media and engaging in volatile public disputes, emphasizing the film’s reflection of contemporary societal issues.
What to Expect from Eddington
Finding Its Audience
While initial responses to Eddington are mixed, with a fluctuating Rotten Tomatoes score currently sitting at 67%, many critics are yet to view the film. Aster has cultivated a dedicated fan base since his breakout success with Hereditary. This loyal audience is poised to engage with Eddington as its release date approaches, especially considering its impressive ensemble cast and the potential for shifting reviews.
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