moviedays1

This movie deserves every accolade possible and demonstrates what a brilliant social observer, commentator and writer Ari Aster is. I have to wonder if the negative reviewers missed how Ari's 'Eddington' is a microcosm for all the political, cultural and social chaos, extremism, polarisation, anti-intellectualism and rampant individualism that is threatening democracy and rationality. Ari recognises how the internet and social media has distorted and created varying realities, extreme ideologies and dogma where a concern for the collective good, intellectual rigour and balance has been replaced by wild conspiracy theories, ignorance trumps facts, and festers excessive and unwarranted distrust in science and other institutions.

Maybe those who can't appreciate Ari's depiction of an increasingly warped, divided, aggrieved and dysfunctional society are too enmeshed in it to step back and really see it.

Please see this movie and support the vital and incredible work of Ellis Park in rescuing, treating and rehabilitating wild animals that have been injured and abused by the deplorable wildlife trafficking industry. Warren Ellis, Femke den Haas and all the animal activists, liberating these exquisite animals from hideous suffering and cruelty, deserve Saint like status.

Incredibly inspiring to see Warren support such a desperately needed venture - his respect for and dedication to these precious yet vulnerable and powerless animals is truly beautiful. He honours the animals and those that care for them with such warmth and sincerity. Not a whiff of ego or artifice, a gifted musical genius with a deep soul and empathy for animals. Watching and listening to him play violin is sublimely moving and heart wrenching, particularly after learning about his childhood and adult struggles. Wish there were more wealthy humans and celebrities who would support the widespread neglect and abuse of animals. Hope his noble endeavours inspire all of us to do something.

After enduring 4 episodes (in the hope that the hype would live up to expectations) I was left wondering why on earth this series has received such acclaim and attention. I get the topical subject matter is worthy of attention and exploration but surely the writers could have come up with a script that provides a more penetrating analysis and exploration of the subject matter. Many characters seem implausible or one dimensional, e.g. The teachers, who seem to treat their students as friends. The psychologist preparing an assessment just doesn't seem very professional or skilled - initially buddying up to the accused with hot chocolates and marshmallow's and later seemingly goading him into anger and then directing him in an authoritarian manner when he reacts to her provocation and manipulation. I would query if a forensic psychologist would ask many of the questions and strategies depicted and then act alarmed and surprised by the reactions evoked. Despite such compelling social issues being explored ( i.e social media, male identity and misogyny) the viewer is expected to see past the superficiality of the script and the tedium/banality/incredulity of the fourth episode which I think, tries to portray the family as coping with the trauma of the situation as best they can amidst day to day life, but the script is clumsy, daft and scenes plagued by over acting. Are we really expected to believe Dad (a tradie) would buy and then throw a can of any old blue paint over his work van to rid it of graffiti after trying to clean it with soap and water? Weren't other issues more pertinent than hearing the family mull over seeing a movie and having Chinese take-away , i.e. When the son changes his not guilty plea to guilty, Mum or Dad don't think to ask why or whether this was based on any legal advice. Sadly, another example of style over substance and emotionally charged subjects not being treated with the depth they deserve.