Eddington is a 2025 American contemporary Western drama film written and directed by Ari Aster. The film stars Joaquin Phoenix, Pedro Pascal, Luke Grimes, Deirdre O’Connell, Micheal Ward, Austin Butler, and Emma Stone.
Set in the fictional town of Eddington, New Mexico, the story unfolds during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. When tensions rise between the town’s sheriff and mayor, the entire community begins to unravel. What starts as a political standoff turns into chaos, division, and violent confrontation.
Eddington had its world premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival on May 16 and is scheduled to release in U.S. theaters on July 18, 2025, distributed by A24.
Rated R for strong violence, some grisly images, language, and graphic nudity, the film features mature and disturbing content that may not be appropriate for younger viewers.
Eddington Age Rating
Eddington is rated R for strong violence, some grisly images, language, and graphic nudity. Below is a spoiler-free content breakdown to help parents understand what to expect.
Violence & Gore
This is the most intense area of the film. The final hour includes extremely graphic shootings, with close-up injury detail and depictions of body parts being blown off. The film also contains scenes of physical fights, executions, and violent crowd behavior. Violence is both sudden and prolonged, making it emotionally intense and visually disturbing.
Language
There is frequent use of strong profanity, including repeated uses of “f**k.” The film also includes derogatory slurs, such as “retard” and “faggot,” used in moments of conflict. The language is harsh and reflects the social breakdown happening in the town.
Sex & Nudity
There is non-sexual male nudity, including visible male genitalia in one scene. Some conversations include verbal references to sexual violence, but no graphic sexual acts are shown.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
Characters are seen drinking alcohol and smoking occasionally. Substance use is present but not a major focus of the story.
Frightening & Intense Scenes
The film maintains a tense and grim atmosphere. Themes of civil unrest, betrayal, and paranoia create an overwhelming tone. The violent climax is especially intense, both visually and emotionally.
Is Eddington Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable: The graphic violence, strong language, nudity, and disturbing themes make Eddington inappropriate for pre-teen audiences.
Ages 13–17: Not recommended: Even for mature teens, the film’s intense violence, slurs, and emotionally heavy content are likely to be too disturbing. While some older teens may be drawn by the cast or genre, the film’s harsh realism and brutal tone are better suited for adult viewers.
Eddington is an adult drama with strong political and social commentary. It is not aimed at younger viewers and should be approached with caution by families.
What Parents Can Do
Watch First, Then Decide: Previewing the film is highly recommended before allowing a teen to view it.
Discuss the Film’s Harsh Themes: If your older teen does watch it, talk about the real-life themes of fear, conflict, and societal division that the movie explores.
Set Media Expectations: Explain the difference between stylized film violence and the kind of realistic, gritty violence shown here.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Eddington?
A: The film is rated R for strong violence, grisly images, language, and graphic nudity.
Q: Is Eddington appropriate for teens?
A: No. The mature themes and violent content are best suited for adult viewers.
Q: Does the film contain graphic violence?
A: Yes. It includes extremely gory scenes involving shootings and injuries.
Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: There is non-sexual male nudity and some verbal references to sexual violence, but no sexual acts are shown.
Q: When is Eddington coming out?
A: The film premieres in U.S. theaters on July 18, 2025.