Pedro Pascal’s performance in Eddington divisive Western has sparked controversy among film critics in 2025, yet this very debate seems to be a pivotal step for the actor’s already soaring career. As Pascal enjoys a milestone year—appearing in The Last of Us season 2, leading projects like Celine Song’s The Materialists, and stepping into major superhero roles—his choice to star in a bold Western signals a timely return to risk and reinvention.
Mixed Responses to Eddington Place the Focus on Its Director
The release of Eddington, directed by Ari Aster, has generated heated reactions among reviewers, not only because of the film’s premise but also due to how its story unfolds. Aster, known for unsettling films like Hereditary and Midsommar, shifted toward even riskier ground with 2023’s Beau Is Afraid, and critics suggest that Eddington carries forward this appetite for experimentation. The plot is set in a fictional New Mexico town during the COVID-19 pandemic, exploring the tense standoff between the town’s mayor and its sheriff, fueled by political and social divides.
Despite Pascal claiming a significant role in the film, most reviews point their attention to Ari Aster’s direction and narrative choices rather than fully dissecting the performances on display. Eddington is described as a dark comedy laced with social commentary, this time targeting post-pandemic American sensibilities. Yet the directorial style has not earned unanimous applause; the Rotten Tomatoes score of 67% reflects the polarized critical landscape.
Opinions on the film’s overall coherence remain divided. Some reviewers note that the movie tries to tackle too many concepts at once, resulting in a fragmented story. While Eddington’s satire on America’s response to COVID-19 is recognized as timely, critics also argue that Aster’s message may tread familiar ground, leaving some longing for fresher insight. However, even skeptics acknowledge that the film’s relentless ambition makes it hard to ignore, and there is appreciation for an original project willing to take substantial creative risks.
The official trailer and release schedule, released by A24, have helped elevate anticipation for Aster’s latest genre exploration, especially given the star power of both Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal. While the director’s signature style generates as much friction as admiration, some viewers remain most intrigued by the unpredictable tone and the willingness of its cast to take creative gambles.
Challenging Films Like Eddington Showcase Pascal’s Range
Pedro Pascal’s rise in Hollywood, fueled by his breakthrough as Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones and strengthened by roles in blockbuster series like The Mandalorian and Marvel’s upcoming The Fantastic Four: First Steps, has established him as an actor who can headline a franchise. However, his history is rich with performances that demonstrate his versatility, from his turn as Maxwell Lord in Wonder Woman 1984 to the wounded Joel in The Last of Us, revealing a talent for both spectacle and subtlety.
Although his recent successes in major franchise films and series keep him in the media spotlight, Eddington offers him a chance to break away from blockbuster constraints and take on more provocative material. Projects such as Freaky Tales or The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent have shown how he flourishes in unconventional roles, and even his appearance as host on Saturday Night Live spotlighted his adaptability and charm in unpredictable settings.
Industry observers note that the challenges posed by Eddington, where critical reception is not guaranteed and narrative choices are deliberately experimental, can benefit Pascal’s growth as an actor. While this divisive Western may not attract the universal acclaim or audience numbers seen with his franchise hits, it adds complexity and depth to his filmography. Ultimately, projects that invite debate and encourage risk-taking may well be essential for an artist seeking longevity and genuine evolution.
The Star-Studded Cast Brings Additional Layers
Eddington boasts a notable cast led by Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal, two actors who are no strangers to complicated characters or demanding roles. Their involvement, along with director Ari Aster’s reputation for controversy and innovation, sets the stage for a film that seeks to challenge conventional Western tropes and test the boundaries of satire amid real-world anxieties.
By taking part in a movie like Eddington, Pascal positions himself not only as a dependable franchise lead but as a performer willing to take creative risks when opportunities arise. The project is likely to ignite discussion within Hollywood about the necessity of ambitious, thought-provoking films, especially in a landscape where familiar formulas often dominate.
With Eddington, Pedro Pascal steps into a divisive spotlight once again—this time as part of a daring Western that may not unite critics, but undoubtedly broadens his repertoire and cements his reputation for choosing roles that challenge expectations and spark conversations.
