Eddington: Ari Aster’s Chaotic Take on COVID-Era Absurdity

If you’re familiar with Ari Aster’s work, then you probably know what to expect from Eddington. In typical Aster fashion, everything looks pretty normal in the beginning, set in an intriguing environment that feels grounded and almost deceptively calm. But as the story unfolds, about halfway through, the film takes a sharp turn and things spiral into complete chaos.

One of the most striking elements of Eddington is how it captures the bizarre and turbulent times of COVID-era America. From the conspiracy theorists who thrived during lockdowns to the absurdity and extremism that emerged on both sides of the political spectrum, the movie reflects the climate with unsettling accuracy. At times, the chaos is so exaggerated it borders on comedy, reminding viewers just how surreal and unhinged those years actually felt.

Performance-wise, the film is anchored by Joaquin Phoenix, who continues to find a strange rhythm with Aster’s directing style. His presence carries much of the narrative, and his character embodies the fractured uncertainty of the world he inhabits. The film also teases an interesting storyline between Phoenix’s character and Pedro Pascal, but unfortunately, this thread is abruptly cut short. From that point forward, the movie spirals into madness, with some characters left feeling underdeveloped or entirely wasted.

Visually and tonally, the movie has a contemporary Western quality, blending wide-open, desolate settings with moments of dark comedy and creeping suspense. However, the pacing is not on its side. While the runtime clocks in at about two and a half hours, it often feels much longer—closer to four. The third act, in particular, is confusing and bewildering, leaving the audience unsure of what the film is ultimately trying to say.

In the end, Eddington is not a movie for everyone. It’s unsettling and uncomfortable and refuses to hand the viewer any clear resolution. But if you appreciate Ari Aster’s distinct brand of filmmaking—his ability to make the mundane unravel into something horrifying, absurd, and strangely funny—you may find value in its messy brilliance. At the very least, it serves as a dark, offbeat time capsule of the chaos and absurdity of the COVID era.