The Big Picture Ari Aster’s ‘Eddington’ Is a Mirror. Like What You See?
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Jul 18, 2025 Join Adam Nayman, a sharp Canadian film critic, and Ari Aster, the visionary director behind horror hits like Hereditary, as they dive into Aster's bold new film, 'Eddington.' They explore how the film cleverly mirrors our social media-driven lives and its unique departure from Aster's signature horror style. The conversation also touches on Joaquin Phoenix's captivating performance and the emotional complexities of the narrative. Plus, they venture into Kiyoshi Kurosawa's importance in cinema, making for a compelling blend of insights and artistry.
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Eddington's New Mexico Roots
- Ari Aster's 'Eddington' is a distinctly personal film reflecting his upbringing in New Mexico and interviews with local figures.
- The film captures a realistic, although stylized, depiction of political and social tensions in a small New Mexico town during COVID.
Trauma and Social Disconnect
- Characters in 'Eddington' are trapped in their families' past traumas that affect their current social and political views.
- The film showcases profound societal disconnect and lack of empathy, especially toward marginalized figures like the homeless man Lodge.
Visualizing Isolation and Connection
- The film uses visual motifs like isolated phone screens and empty spaces to symbolize communication breakdown and personal isolation.
- It emphasizes that geographic isolation is meaningless in a connected world overwhelmed by social media and ongoing national unrest.