The 78th Cannes Film Festival saw a glamorous red carpet event for the world premiere of Eddington, the latest film by director Ari Aster. Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Angelina Jolie, Emma Stone, Pedro Pascal, Joaquin Phoenix, and Austin Butler, turned heads with their stunning looks at the Palais des Festivals on May 16, 2025.
The film, a Western thriller and black comedy, explores themes of the COVID-19 pandemic and social conflicts in a small New Mexico town. With an all-star cast and Aster’s signature storytelling, Eddington is one of the most talked-about films at this year’s festival.
Red Carpet Moments
Emma Stone stood out in a white Louis Vuitton gown with a dramatic circular neckline, accessorized with diamond earrings. Her soft glam makeup and slicked-back hair complemented the elegant look. Stone plays Louise Cross, the wife of Joaquin Phoenix’s character in the film.
Pedro Pascal, who stars as Mayor Ted Garcia, opted for a sharp black suit with a matching shirt and tie. He was seen chatting with Stone and other co-stars on the red carpet. Austin Butler, playing Vernon Jefferson Peak, also wore a classic black tuxedo, while Joaquin Phoenix (Sheriff Joe Cross) kept it sleek with a tailored suit.
Angelina Jolie, serving as the Godmother of the Trophée Chopard, dazzled in a pastel pink off-shoulder gown from Brunello Cucinelli’s Fall 2025 collection. Her dewy makeup and loose hairstyle added to her ethereal presence.
“angelina jolie, you are a goddess” – Fan reaction on Twitter
About the Film Eddington
Directed and written by Ari Aster (Hereditary, Midsommar), Eddington is set during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. The story follows a tense standoff between a small-town sheriff (Phoenix) and the mayor (Pascal), leading to rising tensions in the community.
The film was shot in New Mexico between March and May 2024 and is set for a July 18, 2025 release by A24, the studio behind Everything Everywhere All At Once. Given Aster’s track record, expectations are high for its critical and commercial success.
Other Celebrities at the Premiere
Apart from the main cast, the premiere attracted several high-profile guests:
- Natalie Portman, promoting her animated film Arco, wore a Dior gown with a unique bow detail.
- Rooney Mara (Phoenix’s partner) and Lux Pascal (Pedro Pascal’s sibling) also graced the red carpet.
- Julia Garner, Jeremy Strong, and Harris Dickinson were among other notable attendees.
The event followed Cannes’ new dress code rules, which banned nudity and overly voluminous dresses, leading to elegant yet understated fashion choices.
Fan and Media Reactions
The premiere generated buzz not just for the film but also for the celebrity interactions. A funny moment occurred when a bee flew near Emma Stone and Austin Butler, leading to playful reactions from the cast.
“THE place to be today? The climb up the Eddington red steps!” – Festival de Cannes on Instagram
With its political and social commentary, Eddington is seen as a potential awards contender, though some question its appeal to mainstream audiences. However, A24’s strong Oscar history (like Everything Everywhere All At Once) keeps hopes high.
After its Cannes debut, Eddington will head to theaters on July 18. Early reviews from the festival will shape its box office and awards season prospects.
