Earl Gibson III/Deadline
Joaquin Phoenix found himself visibly emotional after the Cannes premiere of Eddington, Ari Aster’s bold new film. The contemporary Western, set during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, earned a five-minute standing ovation on Friday evening, lighting up the festival with both applause and intrigue.
A Stirring Cinematic Showdown
Eddington unfolds in May 2020, in the heat of national and personal tensions. Set in the fictional town of Eddington, New Mexico, the plot revolves around a conflict between a local sheriff (played by Phoenix) and the town’s mayor (Pedro Pascal). What begins as a political standoff quickly spirals into chaos, turning neighbour against neighbour. The film also stars Emma Stone, Austin Butler, Luke Grimes, Deirdre O’Connell, Micheal Ward, and Clifton Collins Jr.
The film’s themes boldly touch on America’s cultural and political divide. Critics and cinephiles alike noted the movie's deep commentary on societal fractures. Still, reactions were mixed among international viewers. Some left their seats mid-screening, and others exited just before the credits rolled.
Ari Aster’s Unfiltered Moment
Director Ari Aster took the stage after the premiere with characteristic humility. “I don’t know what to say,” he admitted, pausing as emotions stirred. “I don’t know what you think. Sorry, I guess? Thank you, I guess?” Despite the uncertain tone, Aster’s gratitude was clear. “This is a dream come true. Thank you so much for having me,” he added, earning another round of applause.
Phoenix's Return to Cannes Spotlight
Phoenix, no stranger to Cannes, was last awarded Best Actor in 2017 for You Were Never Really Here. His return with Eddington marks a significant moment, not just in his career, but also in the festival’s 2025 lineup. His performance as a conflicted sheriff caught in the whirlwind of pandemic-era paranoia was hailed as powerful and deeply human.
Aster’s Bold Evolution
Eddington is Aster’s first-ever film to screen at Cannes, although he’s far from a newcomer. His breakout horror feature Hereditary premiered at Sundance in 2018, terrifying audiences and cementing his reputation.
Follow-up films Midsommar and Beau Is Afraid skipped the festival circuit entirely. Despite Beau Is Afraid earning decent reviews, it struggled at the box office, grossing just $11 million. With Eddington, Aster returns not only with ambition but a stellar cast that’s no stranger to cinematic prestige.
What Comes Next
Backed by A24, Eddington will hit theatres on July 18. With the buzz from Cannes already swirling, audiences are eager to see whether the film’s bold narrative and stellar performances will resonate as strongly beyond the festival walls.
The Cannes Film Festival continues through May 24, promising more premieres, surprises, and unforgettable cinematic moments. But for now, Eddington has set the bar—and emotions—high.
