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Ari Aster's Eddington highlights pandemic conflict

The film confronts complex themes of freedom and public health during the pandemic.

July 17, 2025 at 09:00 AM

Pandemic paranoia plays out in the American West : NPR

Ari Aster's Eddington shines a light on the chaos stemming from pandemic responses.

Pandemic tensions explored in new film Eddington

Ari Aster's film Eddington is set in a fictional town in New Mexico during May 2020. The story centers on a conflict between a sheriff, played by Joaquin Phoenix, and a mayor, portrayed by Pedro Pascal. As the mayor enforces pandemic safety measures, the sheriff insists on personal choice. The film reflects the intense societal divides during the pandemic, portraying heightened paranoia and conflict. Aster aims to depict the struggles between public health and personal freedom, which led to chaos as tensions escalated into violence. Critics suggest the film acts as a satire, highlighting the fractured nature of society and the challenges of communication during crises.

Key Takeaways

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Eddington depicts pandemic-era chaos and conflict.

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The film features a sheriff and mayor at odds over health mandates.

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Ari Aster aims to showcase the divide between public safety and personal freedoms.

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Critics view the film as a satire of societal fractures during the pandemic.

"It's about a bunch of people living in different realities who are unreachable to each other."

Ari Aster emphasizes the rifts in society caused by differing views during the pandemic.

"Violence is basically the logical next step to a lot of what has been happening."

Ari Aster explains how built-up tensions can lead to conflict in society.

"What it's most critical of is this landscape where we've all been divided very successfully."

Aster describes his intention to critique societal divisions in Eddington.

"The film can help audiences see how we are and question if we want to stay on this path."

Ari Aster hopes Eddington encourages self-reflection among viewers.

The film captures a pivotal moment in American history, examining how the pandemic magnified existing societal divides. Aster crafts a narrative that not only entertains but also challenges viewers to reflect on personal convictions and community values. With rising tensions evident in both the plot and real life, Eddington serves as a mirror, forcing audiences to confront the consequences of division. Aster's hope for shared reflection amidst differing beliefs resonates, suggesting that cinema can encourage dialogue in a fractured landscape.

Highlights

Eddington challenges the perception of freedom during a crisis.
The film showcases the chaos of a divided community.
In Eddington, Aster explores how fear can lead to violence.
Can we find common ground after the pandemic's culture war?

Political and social backlash is a concern

Eddington explores sensitive themes related to public health and freedom of choice, which may provoke differing reactions and debates among audiences.

Eddington invites audiences to reflect on their own positions in a divided era.

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