CANNES, France — The credits have rolled on “Eddington,” the latest film from Ari Aster, which premiered at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival, drawing significant anticipation. The film features a star-studded cast, including Emma Stone and Joaquin Phoenix, who both received a warm welcome from the audience.
Following the screening, which concluded with a subdued five-minute standing ovation, Aster and his cast embraced on stage. Phoenix, visibly emotional, garnered applause from the packed Lumiere theater, highlighting the film’s impact on its viewers.
“I am not sure what to say or how you all will react,” Aster acknowledged, expressing his gratitude toward his team. He humorously added, “I feel very privileged to be here. This is a dream come true,” to laughter from the audience.
Set against the backdrop of a small New Mexico town in May 2020, “Eddington” features Phoenix portraying a sheriff who grapples with the local mayor, played by Pedro Pascal. The film’s plot remains largely undisclosed, but trailers hint at its exploration of the tumultuous COVID-19 era, depicting the pandemic’s chaotic developments alongside the societal upheaval marked by protests against racial inequality and police violence.
Critics have offered varied responses to the film. In a review, a prominent film critic noted that while “Eddington” attempts to blend elements of a modern Western with dark humor, it ultimately struggles to deliver suspense or laughs, describing it as a “distancing slog.”
The enthusiasm for the film extended to its cast, many of whom have previously graced the Cannes stage. Pascal, Phoenix, and Stone have a history at the festival, having premiered notable works in past years, further adding to the excitement surrounding their appearance.
“Eddington” is featured in the festival’s main competition, contending against films from acclaimed directors such as Wes Anderson, Julia Ducournau, and Lynne Ramsay, and showcasing the diverse talent present at the event.
With its exploration of a critical period in contemporary history, Aster’s latest work invites viewers to reflect on shared experiences while challenging expectations of traditional narratives in cinema. As the festival unfolds, all eyes will be on how “Eddington” is received by both audiences and critics alike.