Ari Aster’s much-anticipated ‘Eddington’ received a thunderous five-minute standing ovation following its premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. The emotional response brought lead actor Joaquin Phoenix to tears, visibly moved by the overwhelming appreciation. Co-stars Emma Stone, Pedro Pascal, and Austin Butler joined him on the red carpet for the star-studded premiere.

Set during the Covid era, ‘Eddington’ is a contemporary Western that struck a chord with viewers at its Friday screening. Phoenix, impeccably dressed in a classic tuxedo, appeared emotional and struggled to hold back tears as the applause continued to pour in.

Watch the emotional moment here:

Director Ari Aster, also visibly touched by the reception, expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “I don’t know what to say. I don’t know what you think. Sorry, I guess? Thank you, I guess? I feel very privileged to be here. This is a dream come true. Thank you so much for having me.”

Adding to the glamour of the evening, Hollywood icon Angelina Jolie made a striking return to Cannes, turning heads in a stunning strapless golden embellished gown.

Here’s her look:

Set in May 2020, Eddington follows a tense standoff between a small-town sheriff (Phoenix) and the mayor (Pascal) in Eddington, New Mexico. As tensions rise, the community begins to unravel, with neighbours pitted against one another in a gripping tale of power, loyalty, and survival.

The film is slated for theatrical release on July 18, 2025.