MOVIE REVIEW: Finally Dawn

Images courtesy of Samuel Goldwyn Films

FINALLY DAWN— 2 STARS

LESSON #1: A NIGHT WITH THE STARS– Finally Dawn hinges on the collision between fandom and stardom. Even with its post-World War II period being far before today’s times of social media-driven celebrity access and a massive cycle of multi-pronged tabloid coverage, the matinee stars of cinema still carried a hold over awestruck commoners. Their mere public presence added to their legend. Finally Dawn grants a fan a night with her idols, a scenario that radiates with dream fulfillment.

Leaving the movie theater one day with her mother Elvira (Carmen Pommella of The Hand of God) and younger sister, Mimosa (Rebecca Antonaci, in her film debut), a twenty-something Roman woman named Iris (I Told You So’s Sofia Panizzi) is targeted by a studio talent scout. He is leveraging the chance to audition as an extra for a big Hollywood production chronicling the story of Merneith, the first female Egyptian pharoah, filming currently in the city as a way to pursue Iris romantically. Accompanied by Elvira, the two sisters arrive at the famed Cinecitta studios with dazzled hope.

At a sketchy casting call sequence in Finally Dawn, the classically beautiful Iris is chosen as a crowd extra for the sword-and-sandal epic, but the bashful and introverted Mimosa is not. The confused Mimosa wanders the studio areas looking for her sister, only to catch the eye of Josephine Esperanto (Cinderella star Lily James), the top star of the picture playing Merneith. Seeing something in her unspoiled face, Josephine demands Mimosa be taken on and costumed as the featured extra, a step up from the “cattle car,” representing her fixed eye contact point during a climactic confrontation with the male lead, played by American actor Sean Lockwood (Stranger Things mainstay Joe Keery). The source of focus works as Josephine nails the scene and moves Mimosa to tears.

LESSON #2: WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH THIS CHANCE?— Mimosa made enough of an impression because the head costumer brings a gifted red evening dress from Josephine to Mimosa with the invitation to join her and Sean for the evening. The is a chance the other cast members and actresses would kill for. As the audience of Finally Dawn, this turn of events begs this lesson’s question of viewers. Who, on the level of Josephine Esperanto to Mimosa, would you want to hang with as a special guest? What would that fantasy entail? How would you respond or act?

The extremely apprehensive Mimosa, who is supposed to have a family dinner that night with her proper and parentally-selected fiance, meets Josephine’s personal driver and handler, Rufus Priori. Played by Willem Dafoe, flexing his impeccable Italian language skills acquired through his 20-year marriage to film director Giada Colagrande in a choice part, Priori coaxes the young lady, who pressingly feels the need to find her mother and go home, into joining the festivities. From there, Finally Dawn whisks this girl away, and opens her eyes to how the other half lives and how fancy stars carry themselves. 

With the cameras not rolling and primed for a night on the town, an examinatorial spotlight in Finally Dawn turns to Lily James’s decadent diva. The international star is coming out of her third marriage, attracts an entourage, and covets keeping Sean on her arm, even though he finds himself drawn to his mousy guest. Josephine gives Mimosa the cover name of “Sandy” when introducing her around and crafts her an imagined background as a soulful poet from Sweden.

LESSON #3: WHAT IS THE PARTICULAR FASCINATION?— While Finally Dawn baptizes Mimosa into this luxurious world, we, the audience, are left questioning Josephine and Sean’s intentions. Played with an uncomfortable level of meekness by the newcomer Rebecca Antonaci, the Italian girl is impossibly shy in every situation charted by writer-director Saverio Costanzo in this Golden Lion-nominated film from the 2023 Venice International Film Festival. To be intrigued by the possibilities of Finally Dawn, either some impressionability or glimmer of appeal needed to surface in the Mimosa character to merit her inclusion in this nighttime odyssey, or a deeper pull of allurement, be it beneficial or vile in purpose, had to come from Josephine or her tier of associates.

Instead, Saverio Costanzo treads water in gray areas, which is likely the ambiguous point. In her wandering, Mimosa is made aware of a recent news story investigating the recent death of a local unknown actress whose body washed up on a nearby beach, creating a parallel and precedent possibly coming for her next. In a scene where a slightly jealous Josephine gathers a hoity-toity crowd of party guests to put Mimosa on the spot to read one of her poems as Sandy, the lost kitten freezes and crumbles, only to have uncharacteristic empathy wash over the embarrassed onlookers who, in a silly fashion of happenstance, take her stunned silence as artful stoicism to celebrate.

Between the possibility of grooming an inspired companion or a discarded conquest, neither route from Lesson #3 arrives or is fully committed to in Finally Dawn. The Josephine character is clearly a maven of her own control, a quality clearly enhanced by James’s showy performance, yet the escalating envy never feels plausible. Mimosa is a nobody who could be removed with the flick of her hand and the taxiing exit of Rufus. Why bother if there’s not something special to either exploit or squash? Joe Keery’s Sean follows the same wishy-washy pattern, inexplicably doting on Mimosa one moment and blowing her off another. 

If Finally Dawn is trying to shame foppish, aloof, or two-faced Hollywood behavior permeating overseas away from their ironclad domestic reputations, it needed a louder mouthpiece or taller stump. If Lily James is the headliner, more exploration was needed elevate her spectre. One underutilized character that could have been a lamplight of truth through Finally Dawn was Rachel Sennot’s supporting actress and Esperanto co-star Nan Roth, someone eschewing the star’s social circle and its contagious disillusionment. Sennot is too good an actress to be given this little to do, especially in a drama that takes its time and money to quite novelly recreate a massive and sweeping Hollywood on the Tiber film production.

Circling back to Lesson #2, if you are granted such an adventure of the finer things, how does an innocent and modest woman like Mimosa ever go back to her mundane life, especially when the cocaine shows up and she possibly sees these people for who they really are? The film’s answer is as quiet as its protagonist. Finally Dawn takes what should sizzle with sensuality and eye-opening bewilderment and finds malaise. Somehow, in the parting coda, Costanzo chose to drop the needle for “Last Nite” by The Strokes for the credits of a sumptuous period piece. That’s a baffling choice for a finishing flourish, as if Semisonic’s “Closing Time” was splashed at the end of Casablanca. If this was true, topical satire where that final beat hit, Mimosa would be taking her walk of shame down the historic and photogenic Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, as she does, but with a pep in her step wearing a t-shirt that says “I Spent the Night with Josephine Esperanto and Sean Lockwood, and All I Got Was a Red Dress, a ‘Dear John’ Poem, a Stroll with a Lost Lioness, and a Long Story No One Will Believe.”

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Behind the Scenes: What Movie Stars Really Use to Stay Focused

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by Nancy Fernandez

When we think of movie stars, our minds often jump to red carpets, glamorous photoshoots, and perfectly delivered lines on screen. But behind the glitz and glamour lies an intense world of long working hours, demanding roles, and exhausting shoots. Maintaining focus and energy during this chaos isn’t easy—even for the most seasoned actors.

So what really helps them stay sharp and in the zone during a 16-hour day on set? Surprisingly, it’s not all yoga and green juice. Today’s actors are blending traditional wellness with new-age focus tools to keep their edge. Let’s take a look behind the curtain.

The Demands of Filming

Before we dive into what helps them stay focused, it’s important to understand the demands of a film set. Shooting a film often involves waking up before dawn, waiting around for hours between scenes, memorizing pages of dialogue, and switching emotional gears at a moment’s notice. Factor in time zone changes, back-to-back interviews, and the physical toll of action sequences, and you’ve got a recipe for burnout.

That’s why focus, stamina, and mental clarity are critical tools for survival in the film industry. And that’s also why many actors develop personal rituals and tools that help them stay sharp.

Healthy Habits and Routines

Many stars turn to healthy routines to maintain balance and focus during hectic shoots. These include:

• Meditation and Mindfulness: Actors like Hugh Jackman and Zendaya have spoken openly about their use of mindfulness to stay present during intense filming schedules. A few minutes of deep breathing between scenes can make a big difference in maintaining mental clarity.

• Nutritional Support: Meal prepping and maintaining a balanced diet is essential. Many actors travel with personal chefs or meal kits to ensure they’re getting enough protein, healthy fats, and brain-boosting nutrients like omega-3s.

• Sleep Hygiene: Despite their busy schedules, successful actors prioritize sleep whenever possible. They may use blackout curtains, white noise apps, or travel pillows to catch quality rest in trailers, hotel rooms, or on flights.

The Focus Toolkit: Caffeine and Beyond

Of course, coffee remains a go-to for many. But as people become more conscious of caffeine crashes and jitters, there’s been a shift toward alternatives that offer focus without side effects.

• Matcha and Green Tea: Containing L-theanine along with caffeine, these drinks provide a smoother energy lift, which many actors prefer before emotionally intense scenes.

• Adaptogens: Supplements like ashwagandha, Rhodiola rosea, and lion’s mane mushroom have made their way into wellness routines for supporting stress resilience and mental clarity.

• Nicotine Pouches: A growing number of adults, including those in high-performance professions like acting, are turning to nicotine pouches as a discreet and smoke-free way to boost focus. These pouches provide a mild stimulant effect that can help with concentration during long takes or downtime on set. For those who already use nicotine or are looking to transition from smoking, these pouches offer a convenient alternative.

This is also why there has been increased online interest around options to buy snus or other similar tobacco-free nicotine pouch products—especially among those seeking clean, odorless options that won’t interfere with filming environments.

Staying Focused Without Distractions

Film sets can be chaotic. Between the crew moving lights, multiple takes, and last-minute changes in the script, distractions are constant. That’s why some actors work with focus coaches or use cognitive behavioral strategies to keep themselves anchored in the moment.

For example:

• Visualization Techniques: Before shooting a critical scene, actors may close their eyes and visualize every movement and line delivery to prepare themselves mentally.

• Noise-Canceling Headphones: To drown out ambient noise between scenes, many performers use high-end headphones to listen to instrumental music or white noise, helping them stay locked in before filming.

• Digital Detox: Scrolling through social media is a common time-waster. Many actors put their phones on airplane mode or leave them in their trailers to avoid distractions while preparing for intense scenes.

Personal Rituals That Promote Mental Sharpness

Everyone has their own quirks—and Hollywood stars are no different. Some actors swear by certain rituals that help them get in the zone and stay focused:

• Journaling Before a Scene: Writing down their character’s thoughts or emotional state helps actors dive deeper into their roles.

• Chewing Gum or Using Mints: Not just for fresh breath, chewing helps stimulate the brain and maintain alertness.

• Pre-Scene Workouts: A quick burst of movement—jumping jacks, push-ups, or yoga—can enhance circulation and awaken the body before a big moment.

• Essential Oils: Scents like peppermint, rosemary, and eucalyptus have been used by actors as natural focus aids while waiting in trailers or prepping for a shoot.

The Role of Modern Wellness Products

As Hollywood evolves, so do the tools and products its stars rely on. Many are leaning into biohacking and science-backed performance tools, from nootropic supplements to wearable tech that tracks sleep and heart rate variability.

Nicotine pouches, in particular, have quietly gained popularity due to their ease of use and fast-acting effects. Unlike traditional tobacco, these pouches are discreet, smokeless, and don’t carry the same social stigma—making them ideal for use on closed film sets where smoking is prohibited.

Of course, everyone’s focus strategy is personal. What works for one actor may not work for another. The key is finding a system that supports both their mental sharpness and overall well-being without interfering with performance or the environment around them.

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Live Film Concerts: When the Orchestra Becomes the Narrator

Images courtesy of Pixabay

Imagine sitting in a grand hall as the lights dim and the opening scene of a beloved film flickers to life on a giant screen. Suddenly, a live orchestra strikes the first note of the score in perfect sync with the action. In that moment, the music isn’t just background sound – it’s telling the story right alongside the characters. Welcome to the world of live film concerts, where the orchestra becomes the narrator of the cinematic tale. Music has long been “the emotional backbone of any film,” amplifying each scene’s drama, romance, or suspense. Now, audiences are discovering that experiencing those melodies performed live can transform a familiar movie into something profoundly new.

A Tradition Reborn in Symphony Halls

This fusion of cinema and concert hall might sound like a novel trend, but it actually revives a tradition as old as movies themselves. In the silent film era, before movies had recorded dialogue or sound, theaters hired pianists, organists, even full orchestras to “give voice” to the on-screen story. Back then, music literally narrated the film’s emotions and action. Today’s live film concerts carry that legacy forward using modern technology: the film plays with dialogue and effects, but the musical score is performed live by an orchestra, synced meticulously to each scene.

What started as a niche experiment has now “become a global phenomenon,” embraced by major orchestras around the world. From Star Wars to The Lord of the Rings, screenings with live orchestras routinely sell out concert halls. Far from just a gimmick, these events have given a boost to symphonies by drawing in new audiences. “Every orchestra is participating in these programs… a tremendous way to engage new fans,” notes composer-conductor David Newman, a pioneer of the format. In other words, film concerts are a win-win: movie lovers get to hear their favorite scores in full fidelity, and orchestras get to showcase their art to a broader, often younger crowd.

Music as Storyteller: The Power of Live Soundtrack

Why is hearing a film score live so impactful? For one, film music has always told a story in its own right – sometimes more than we realize. As David Newman explains, a movie’s score “tells the story in a different language, a language we all intuitively understand”. The swelling strings, triumphant brass, or haunting choir inform our emotions moment by moment, essentially narrating what the characters feel when no words are spoken. When those musical storytellers are performing live in front of us, their narrative power is at its peak.

According to conductor Anthony Parnther, experiencing a score live is “a whole different element that you just don’t get in a theatre” with the standard recorded soundtrack. The synergy of live musicians with on-screen drama creates an immediacy and energy that even the best surround-sound system can’t replicate. Below are a few key ways this live orchestra experience can reshape how we perceive a film:

• Emotional Amplification: In a concert hall, you don’t just hear the music – you feel it. The vibrations of a live orchestra can literally move through your body, intensifying the emotional highs and lows of the story. A tense chase feels more urgent with the orchestra racing along, and a poignant farewell can draw tears when the strings cry out in real time.

• New Dimensions to the Story: Live music can reveal details in the score that might have been missed before. You begin to notice musical motifs tied to characters and themes, and how they recur to foreshadow events or recall memories. Audiences often find that the live music adds a new dimension to a beloved story they thought they knew by heart. By watching the orchestra, you might even catch which instrument carries a melody at a crucial moment, gaining fresh appreciation for the composer’s craft.

• Shared Experience and Energy: Unlike a typical night at the movies, film concerts are communal and interactive. You’re enjoying the film with an audience of fellow fans and an entire orchestra on stage. The crowd might cheer when Indiana Jones heroically swings into action, laugh at a witty line, or boo when a villain like Snape appears – all spontaneous reactions that feed the excitement. Some superfans even attend in cosplay or dress up to match the movie’s theme, turning the event into a celebration. This lively atmosphere transforms movie-watching into a collective adventure, where everyone is tuned in to the musical storytelling together.

All of these elements deepen our engagement with the film. The live orchestra doesn’t replace the on-screen narrative; it enhances it, guiding our hearts through the journey in a way that feels immediate and alive.

Barbie The Movie: In Concert – A Soundtrack Spectacle

One of the most talked-about new film concert events brings Barbie from the big screen to the stage in style. Barbie The Movie: In Concert invites fans to re-enter the vibrant world of Barbie (2023) with a unique twist: an all-female ensemble called the Barbie Land Sinfonietta performs the film’s music live as the movie plays. The record-breaking blockbuster’s score and its pop hits are all delivered by this orchestra in real time – from the sweeping instrumental themes to the catchy songs that had everyone dancing last summer. This means you might hear a rich string arrangement of Billie Eilish’s soulful ballad or a powerhouse orchestral rendition of “Dance the Night” as Barbie and Ken dazzle on screen.

What does this hybrid experience achieve? For one, it turns a film known for its music into an even more immersive concert-like party. The audience isn’t just watching Barbie and Ken’s adventure; they’re also responding to the groove of a live band, effectively living in Barbie Land for the night. Hearing those familiar songs backed by a full orchestra can send chills down your spine one moment and get your toes tapping the next. It highlights the emotional beats of the story – the wonder, the humor, the girl-power triumphs – by letting the music lead the celebration. Barbie The Movie: In Concert exemplifies how a live orchestra can narrate a modern film’s story in a fresh way, elevating its most memorable moments through sound. And judging by the enthusiastic multi-generational audiences (little kids in pink dresses and nostalgic adults alike), it succeeds in deepening fans’ connection to a film they already love, making the experience feel brand new.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Magic of Stage and Score

Meanwhile, on the theatrical side, the world of Harry Potter has found a different kind of live storytelling magic. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is not a film concert but a Tony Award-winning stage play – yet it deserves a spot in this conversation for how it uses live performance and music to expand a beloved narrative. As a sequel to J.K. Rowling’s saga set years after the books, Cursed Child has been enchanting audiences in London, New York, and beyond. The show became a phenomenon in its own right, winning a record-breaking nine Olivier Awards in London and selling out shows internationally. Part of its spell comes from the staging and special effects (you’ll swear you’ve seen real magic happen live), but another powerful ingredient is the original score and sound design that accompany the drama.

Unlike film-to-concert events that bring familiar movie music to life, Cursed Child does the opposite – it introduces an entirely new musical experience for the Harry Potter universe. In fact, the play’s creators intentionally avoided using John Williams’ iconic movie themes. Composer Imogen Heap crafted a modern, otherworldly soundscape from scratch, aiming to distinguish the stage experience from the films. They “didn’t want any reference to the music in the films” so that the play would offer “a completely different experience,” Heap has explained. This bold choice means that as an audience member, you aren’t triggered to simply recall the movie scenes; instead, you’re drawn into uncharted emotional territory with Harry, Hermione, and their children. The music, whether it’s a subtle ambient hum or a swelling motif in a duel scene, becomes an unseen character on stage – guiding your feelings and building suspense just as a traditional narrator might, but through melody and rhythm.

The result is an even deeper engagement with the story. Without the comfort of the old film score, viewers find themselves leaning in, hanging on the new notes to sense the mood. Every flourish in the orchestra pit (or from the speakers in the auditorium) is telling part of the tale – from the nostalgic warmth of returning to Hogwarts, to the eerie tension of dark magic unfolding. By the end of Cursed Child, many fans report that they have not only witnessed a thrilling new chapter of the Potter story, but also gained a richer appreciation for how sound shapes the experience of storytelling. It’s a testament to what live music and theater can do: reshape our perception of a world we thought we knew, making the magic feel as real as ever.

Bringing the Magic to the Audience

As these hybrid film-concert and stage experiences grow in popularity, fans have more opportunities than ever to step into these story worlds. Securing a ticket to a high-demand show, however, can sometimes feel like its own adventure. This is where having a reliable, transparent source for tickets matters. Platforms like tickethold make it easier to find and book seats for special events – whether you’re chasing the next big concert tickets in your city or a must-see theater tickets production. With a user-friendly interface and clear pricing (no hidden sorcery or surprise fees), tickethold allows you to focus on anticipating the experience itself. For shows like Barbie The Movie: In Concert or Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, knowing you have your tickets secured through a trusted outlet means you can sit back and look forward to the moment the orchestra tunes up or the curtain rises – the moment the magic truly begins.

(Above: Reliable ticket platforms ensure you’re all set for the show, so you can immerse yourself in the experience when the time comes.)

The Lasting Echo: Sound, Memory, and Meaning

When the final triumphant chord echoes and the screen fades to black, you may find that a live film concert or theatrical performance lingers in your heart far longer than a typical trip to the movies. The reason is simple: you haven’t just watched a story, you’ve felt it unfold through music. The orchestra’s narration – those lush strings, bold brass, and ethereal choral notes – etches the emotions of each scene into your memory. In the hush that follows the encore, we’re left reflecting on just how profoundly sound shapes our memories and the meaning we draw from them.

Think about it: would the **shark in **Jaws strike the same fear without John Williams’ two-note motif? Would the triumph of your favorite hero feel as sweet without the swell of an orchestra behind it? Live concerts like these remind us that music and story are inextricably linked. They invite us to cherish not just what we see on screen, but what we hear and feel in the experience.

So next time you find yourself humming a film tune on the way home – heart still thumping from the excitement of a live crescendo – take a moment to ponder the lesson in that melody. Why did that particular swell of sound move you? How has it colored your memory of the story? In this thoughtful pause, every movie becomes a lesson and every concert a classroom, teaching us to listen closely to the narratives that live in the music. The orchestra has spoken; now it’s our turn to reflect on what its story means to us.

Let the music play on in your mind, and you’ll discover that the notes of these experiences continue to shape your memories, long after the final bow.

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Interview with Director Alissa Jung, Actors Luca Marinelli and Juli Grabenhenrich (Paternal Leave)

Alissa Jung’s Paternal Leave explores fatherhood through the fractured relationship between Paolo (Luca Marinelli) and his estranged daughter, Leo (Juli Grabenhenrich), who reunite in Italy after years apart. With standout performances and a bold screenplay, the film avoids straightforward answers. Instead, it asks what it really means to be a father – and whether there’s […]

The post Interview with Director Alissa Jung, Actors Luca Marinelli and Juli Grabenhenrich (Paternal Leave) appeared first on Movie Marker.

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Pavements ★★★★

Released: 11th July 2025 Director: Alex Ross Perry Starring: Pavement, Rebecca Clay Cole, Gary Young, Joe Keery, Nat Wolff, Fred Hechinger Music biopics are coming thick and fast at present, covering bands and artists of all shapes and sizes, with the likes of Elton John, Bob Dylan and soon Bruce Springsteen (Springsteen: Deliver Me From […]

The post Pavements ★★★★ appeared first on Movie Marker.

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MOVIE REVIEW: Eddington

Images courtesy of A24 Films

EDDINGTON— 4 STARS

Eddington may take place in a fictional New Mexico desert hamlet of 2,435 people, but the film is drenched in temerity of every sort of viscosity and potency. Mortality, ethics, hospitality, and even blood itself run thick and thin at numerous points in this venomous satire, which dares to set its lurid affairs during the peak of the COVID-19 panic five years ago. The man spraying and slathering the ironic ick is none other than Hereditary’s Ari Aster, a quickly rising master storyteller in making audiences feel exposed and uncomfortable with what is sure to be one of the most polarizing films of 2025.

The neo-western film is set in May 2020 in the aforementioned cow town in the Land of Enchantment, where the podunk community is on the heels of getting a financial boost from the construction of a high-tech data center. The facility is backed by wealthy corporate investors who loom over the village’s dealings, trying to carry local favor and secure village approval to build. The man they need most in their pocket is Eddington mayor Ted Garcia (Pedro Pascal, who is everywhere in 2025), who is currently running unopposed for re-election.

Eddington’s trail toil begins with a derelict and barefoot homeless man coming down from that data center site, frothing and wailing wicked omens, and causing a public disturbance outside of Ted’s bar establishment. Hearing his words, one man’s senseless rant-and-raver is another person’s town cryer warning his neighbors of potential danger. Be that as it may, the commotion requires the attention of town sheriff, Joe Cross, played by Joaquin Phoenix, top-lining his second consecutive Aster film after 2023’s tragic existentialist dramedy Beau is Afraid. The lawman—a tightly-wound anti-masker—mishandles the situation, which gets streamed on social media, and introduces pre-existing beef between the oafish Cross and dutiful Garcia. 

Ted and Joe’s animosity continues the next day during a customer confrontation with grocery store managers over the federal and state-wide mask mandate. The peaceful and cosmopolitan Ted quells the situation, one-upping the non-compliant and uncouth Joe again in front of his fellow citizens. As it turns out, Ted Garcia was rumored to have had an indecent relationship with Joe’s cold fish wife, Louise (two-time Academy Award winner Emma Stone), years ago when they were in high school. Rumors have been long forgotten, but it remains a traumatic skeleton in the closet that Louise—and now Joe—have not shaken. Peeved to no end, Joe gets it in his mind to run against Ted for the office of Eddington mayor, kicking off a contentious and bumbling competition of mud-slinging and airing dirty laundry. 

LESSON #1: HOW WAS YOUR TRIP THROUGH THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC?—But, this is the time of COVID, where nothing was as simple as a cut check, a handshake or two, or a simple town election. The extremely intentional period choice of Ari Aster means to sow, disclose, and reflect on the time’s rampant feelings of dissension and misinformation, all of which were made worse with the Black Lives Matter aftermath of George Floyd’s murder in Minneapolis on May 25, 2020, which makes its way into Eddington’s tinderbox. Nevertheless, one’s personal experience or core beliefs, cardinal or casual, when it comes to the pandemic and BLM will color their impression and acceptance of the film. Likely split by certain geographic, social, and even religious delineations, Eddington will be a non-starter of a film experience for many. Alas, plenty of mistakes were made that the collective public deserves to have its nose rubbed in by an immodest movie like this. It was a hell of a time to be alive.

The caustic synthesis of character motivations is the crux of absorbing Eddington. Emma Stone makes her presence felt as the home-ridden manic depressive spouse. Louise is fed with heaps of conspiracy-laden media by her muttering mother, Dawn (Tony Award winner Deirdre O’Connell), and creates surrealistic woven art which covers her family’s home. Combining her much-debated “history” with Ted, she embodies a puzzling figure. That said, it’s the roster of men in Eddington who are assigned the truly malignant traits that sculpt the movie’s blunt and bitter derision. 

LESSON #2: WHAT IS WITH THIS GUY?!--- Top to bottom, this lesson’s question could be asked with all available WTF tone, and the accompanying examinations and answers wouldn’t budge the bewildering totality of Eddington or the explosive powder it packs in its keg. Starting with the homeless man, carefully listen to Ted’s hangups as a mayor, the rebelliousness of his son Eric (newcomer Matt Gomez Hidaka of TV’s Silo), and Eric’s supposed friend Brian (Cameron Mann from Mare of Easttown) competing for the same romantic affection and Instagram acclaim. Keenly watch the overqualified, yet perfectly cast Austin Butler galavanting into town as the internet cult leader, Vernon Jefferson Peak, who sweet-talks Louise and Dawn. Be wary of Joe’s deputies Guy Toolery and Michael Cooke (Yellowstone’s Luke Grimes and Empire of Light standout Micheal Ward)—one white and one black—duped into helping their boss’s campaign while overwhelmed with the racially-charged protests against law enforcement. Don’t forget about those watchful silent investors lurking around Eddington, too. 

To a man, each of them reeks with a different odor of male fragility, a very worthy flaw for Aster to target and engorge on with this twisted parable shot with sulking camera work by auteur cinematographer specialist Darius Khondji (Bardo, False Chronicle of Handful of Truths). The greatest perpetrator of this brittle frailty in Eddington is Joaquin Phoenix’s Joe Cross. The Joker Oscar winner has taken the crown from Jack Nicholson as the best crazy man in the movie business. He’s a shocking trainwreck of a man you can’t take your eyes off of in Eddington.

Look no further than Cross’s floundering campaign, led by the wimpy slogan of “Lets free each others hearts.” Lovelorn at home and brazen on the job, a microcosm of his utter inadequacy could be summed up by one tone-deaf poster of many strapped to his county-issued squad SUV transformed into his personalized rolling campaign megaphone. It reads, “Your being manipulated,” complete with the same signature all-caps Impact font and cluelessly uncorrected spelling and grammatical mistakes as the slogan. Joe Cross represents that loud-and-clear type of misaligned justice we haven’t entirely corrected in five years.

LESSON #3: SPECULATION IS NOT THE GROUNDS FOR ESCALATION— Through the exaggerated events of Eddington led by Joe’s tailspin, Ari Aster makes his stances quite bracing and uses the movie’s star-laiden stump to address the many varieties of toxic Kool-Aid. From the farcical flavors coming from the “I did my own research” crowd to the serious-minded juice spewing out of incensed progressives, little to no quarter is given to anyone. More often than not, blame and massive mistakes from knee-jerk reactions come from careless, gossipy conjecture inflated by social media grandstanding. Speculation is not the grounds for escalation. Jealousy, gross misinformation, and weaponized shame are the dangerous by-products from those erroneous actions.

Everything carrying tension in Eddington, cranked by a tart score from the electronica duo of The Haxan Cloak Bobby Krlic (Blue Beetle) and Daniel Pemberton (Materialists, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse), snaps once a pulled trigger enters the narrative. After shots are fired for the first time, the movie jumps a shiver of sharks. At that turning point, the novelness of the satire molds and a manhunt, where we’re in on the dramatic irony, takes over. The preposterous worst of people and actions emerge and threatens to undercut the message movie ambition of Ari Aster and his quality compilation of intermingled comedic buzz points, especially when a lengthy coda of weary comeuppance tries to hammer them home one last time. You may, like the surviving characters, be left asking how did we get here and is it all worth it.

LOGO DESIGNED BY MEENTS ILLUSTRATED (#1322)

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The Ultimate Movie Marathon Guide for Stress Relief

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by Nancy Fernandez

In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become a part of everyday life. Whether it’s work-related burnout, personal struggles, or just the pressures of modern living, finding effective ways to unwind is essential for mental and emotional well-being. While meditation, exercise, and therapy are all excellent tools, sometimes the simplest comfort comes from curling up on the couch with a great movie marathon. A carefully curated lineup of films can offer the perfect escape — a chance to laugh, cry, be inspired, and, most importantly, relax.

To take your stress-relief marathon to the next level, consider pairing it with calming wellness rituals. One trending natural aid among wellness enthusiasts is THCa Flower. Known for its non-psychoactive properties and potential anti-inflammatory and stress-reducing benefits, THCa Flower offers a unique way to ease into a deeply relaxed state without the typical “high” associated with cannabis. Whether brewed in tea, vaped at low temperatures, or used in a relaxing herbal blend, it can complement your movie marathon for the ultimate calming experience.

Step 1: Set the Scene

Before hitting play, create a cozy and inviting environment that encourages rest. Dim the lights, light a few candles, fluff your pillows, and grab your favorite throw blanket. If you enjoy scents, add some calming aromatherapy using essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or sandalwood. A clean, quiet space can work wonders for shifting your mind into relaxation mode.

Don’t forget snacks! Choose comfort foods that nourish the soul — popcorn, dark chocolate, fruit platters, or even a warm bowl of soup. For an added wellness twist, try herbal teas or infused waters with ingredients like chamomile, lemon balm, or even adaptogenic herbs.

Step 2: Choose Your Genre Based on Mood

Your movie selection will greatly influence your experience. Here’s a breakdown of genres to suit your stress-relief needs:

Comedy — Laugh It Off

Laughter is scientifically proven to reduce stress by releasing feel-good endorphins. Choose lighthearted classics or feel-good comedies. Consider:

• The Grand Budapest Hotel

• Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

• Bridesmaids

• Paddington 2

Feel-Good Dramas — Emotional Detox

Sometimes, a good cry can be cathartic. Emotional dramas that end on a hopeful note can help release pent-up tension.

• The Pursuit of Happyness

• Little Miss Sunshine

• Julie & Julia

• About Time

Fantasy & Adventure — Escape the Everyday

If real life feels overwhelming, disappear into another world for a few hours.

• The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

• Harry Potter Series

• Stardust

• Spirited Away

Romantic Classics — Warm the Heart

Sweet, heartwarming stories can create a sense of connection and comfort.

• Pride and Prejudice (2005)

• The Notebook

• 10 Things I Hate About You

• La La Land

Animated Delights — Pure Joy

Sometimes we all need a touch of childhood nostalgia.

• Coco

• Up

• Zootopia

• My Neighbor Totoro

Step 3: Make It a Marathon, Not a Sprint

While it may be tempting to binge-watch for 10 hours straight, true relaxation comes from pacing yourself. Plan your movie marathon with breaks in between films to stretch, hydrate, or take a short walk. Consider breaking your marathon into themed days — such as a “Rom-Com Sunday” or a “Feel-Good Friday” — to avoid fatigue and keep the experience joyful.

It’s also helpful to make a list ahead of time to avoid the dreaded “scroll fatigue.” Choose 3–5 movies per session and organize them by mood or genre. That way, when you settle in for your marathon, you can dive right in.

Step 4: Disconnect to Reconnect

A big part of reducing stress is limiting distractions. That includes putting your phone on silent (or in another room entirely), logging off social media, and giving yourself full permission to unwind. Think of your movie marathon as a mini-retreat for your nervous system — no emails, no messages, no pressure to be productive.

You can enhance this tech detox with mindfulness elements. Try pairing your marathon with a short guided breathing session or simply take a few moments between movies to check in with how you feel. You’ll be amazed at how even a few hours of screen-free presence (outside of movies) can help lower anxiety.

Step 5: Add a Wellness Touch

For a truly therapeutic experience, combine your movie time with soothing wellness practices. Here are a few ideas:

• Breathwork or meditation during movie transitions

• Aromatherapy diffuser with calming scents

• Gentle stretching or yoga during credits

• Enjoying THCa Flower in a form that suits your relaxation goals

By integrating mind-body elements into your marathon, you’re not just watching movies — you’re actively creating a healing ritual. Products like THCa Flower, when used responsibly and legally, can enhance this state of calm and make your movie marathon a full-body reset.

Final Thoughts

Stress is inevitable, but burnout doesn’t have to be. A well-planned movie marathon offers more than temporary distraction — it provides a comforting routine that resets your emotional equilibrium. By choosing the right films, setting the right atmosphere, and incorporating wellness tools like THCa Flower, you can turn a casual night into a powerful act of self-care.

Whether you need a hearty laugh, a good cry, or just a break from reality, your ultimate movie marathon is more than entertainment — it’s therapy in motion. So press play, breathe deep, and let the healing begin.

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