‘Eddington’ Captures the Chaos of the COVID Era in a Terrifying Thriller
The pandemic has brought a lot of changes to our lives, from social distancing and mask mandates to remote work and virtual learning. But what happens when these changes are taken to the extreme? This is the premise of the new horror film, ‘Eddington,’ directed by renowned filmmaker Ari Aster.
The film takes place in a small town in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The residents are living in fear, constantly bombarded by news of the virus and conspiracy theories. The protagonist, Alice, is a young woman struggling with her mental health and the isolation brought on by the pandemic. When she becomes convinced that her neighbors are part of a sinister plot to spread the virus, she goes on a terrifying journey to uncover the truth.
The film is a commentary on the chaos and fear that have consumed our lives during the pandemic. As Aster puts it, “The pandemic has amplified our fears and anxieties, and ‘Eddington’ explores what happens when those fears become reality.”
The film’s title, ‘Eddington,’ is a nod to British astronomer Sir Arthur Eddington, who famously said, “Something unknown is doing we don’t know what.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the sense of uncertainty and fear that permeates the film.
Aster is no stranger to horror, having gained critical acclaim for his previous films, ‘Hereditary’ and ‘Midsommar.’ But ‘Eddington’ is a departure from his usual style, incorporating elements of found footage and psychological horror to create a uniquely unsettling experience.
The film stars Florence Pugh as Alice, giving a captivating performance as a woman on the brink of madness. Jack Reynor plays her neighbor, who may or may not be involved in the supposed COVID conspiracy. The supporting cast includes Will Poulter, who delivers a chilling performance as a conspiracy theorist, and William Jackson Harper, who brings a sense of groundedness to the film as Alice’s friend.
One of the most impressive aspects of the film is its use of real-life footage and news clips from the early days of the pandemic. This adds a layer of authenticity to the film and makes it all the more unsettling. The film also touches on themes of mental health and the dangers of misinformation, making it a timely and thought-provoking piece.
Since its release, ‘Eddington’ has received mixed reviews from critics. Some have praised its unique approach to the horror genre and powerful performances, while others have criticized its reliance on tropes and lack of subtlety.
Regardless of the reviews, ‘Eddington’ is a must-watch for horror fans and anyone looking for a spine-chilling reflection on the current state of the world. Its unnerving atmosphere and thought-provoking themes will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.
In conclusion, ‘Eddington’ captures the chaos and uncertainty of the COVID-19 era in a terrifying and thought-provoking way. With its timely themes and powerful performances, it is a must-watch for anyone looking for a thrilling and unsettling cinematic experience.