Eddington (7.2/10)

This new Western/Thriller stars Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal. While Pascal plays a supporting role, the film is largely Joaquin’s showcase, and he delivers a great performance. The cinematography is also a standout, capturing the dusty landscapes and tension-filled atmosphere with striking precision. The story tackles a wide range of controversial topics—systemic racism, COVID, politics—you name it. At times, this heavy-handedness overshadows the narrative, making the film feel more like a statement than a story. The film was interesting enough to keep me invested throughout."During the COVID-19 pandemic, a standoff between a small-town sheriff and mayor sparks a powder keg as neighbor is pitted against neighbor in Eddington, N.M."