By Jon Donnis
Eddington is a sprawling, intense film that tries to say a lot about modern America through the lens of a small town caught in a bitter standoff. Joaquin Phoenix leads the charge as Joe Cross, a sheriff who clashes with the town’s mayor, played by Pedro Pascal, over pandemic rules and power. It’s a story about how fear, politics, and misinformation can tear communities apart, but the film often struggles to balance its many ideas. At times it feels like it wants to cover everything all at once, which makes the narrative feel heavy and a little unfocused.
Phoenix is magnetic as always, delivering a performance full of tension and frustration that grounds the film. Emma Stone is a strong presence too, playing Joe’s wife with a mix of vulnerability and volatility that adds emotional weight. The supporting cast, from Austin Butler’s cult leader to Michael Ward’s deputy, bring interesting energy, but some characters feel lost in the shuffle. The film runs long, over two hours, and the pacing suffers because it tries to juggle so much without always making it clear what it wants to say.
One of the film’s weaknesses is that it doesn’t really pick a side, showing both the town’s divisions without leaning into a clear viewpoint. While that might be intentional, it leaves the satire feeling somewhat neutral and less sharp than it could be. Some plotlines aren’t fully developed, and the story can wander, which might leave viewers wanting more focus and clarity. It’s a lot to take in, and at times the film feels like it bites off more than it can chew.
Still, Eddington has its moments of dark humour and raw insight into how paranoia and conflict can escalate. The violence hits hard and feels real, never cheap. The film demands patience and attention, rewarding those willing to sit with its messy, complicated portrait of a community unraveling. It’s not an easy watch, and some might find it slow or confusing, but it stands out for its ambition and strong performances, even if it doesn’t always deliver a fully satisfying story.
I score Eddington a safe 6 out of 10.
Out Now
Apple TV - https://apple.co/4eWD8fQ
