Showing humanity at its worst, ‘Eden’ has gorgeous actors getting uncivilized on a remote island

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Ron Howard’s latest movie, titled “Eden,” narrates a real-life account of disillusioned Europeans from the 1930s. Fleeing their own society, they settled on a secluded Galapagos island, initially creating a self-made paradise. However, this idealistic haven soon degenerated into power squabbles and violence. The film also underscores that Charles Darwin might have witnessed more intense survival-of-the-fittest competition if he had visited the island around a century earlier.

In simpler, more conversational terms: This material, which is quite unconventional for Howard who’s known for action-packed hero stories like “Apollo 13” and “Thirteen Lives,” finds this seasoned Hollywood director taking on a new challenge in screenwriter Noah Pink’s dramatic portrayal of true events and mysteries. It seems that Howard is eager to break free from his established reputation and have some daring, raw fun. For instance, Jude Law plays a permanently snarky character, Ana de Armas acts erratically and flirts aggressively, Vanessa Kirby engages in a unique form of foreplay involving a tooth extraction, and Sydney Sweeney delivers a powerful performance giving birth alone while facing off against wild dogs.

The findings might not offer profound insights into the nature of non-human existence, given its references to Nietzsche and Schopenhauer. Instead, “Eden” may be likened to an extravagant reality TV show featuring ill-suited survivalists. However, for summer viewing, it’s a fun, engaging watch, reminiscent of a sensational beach read, complete with a talented cast and fast-paced rhythm, albeit at times leaving one to ponder if Werner Herzog could have done a better job with the material (it was previously documented in a 2013 film).

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On the isolated, uninhabited island of Floreana, the initial settlers were Dr. Friedrich Ritter, a German botanist, and his loyal, ailing companion, Dore. These individuals, who championed suffering as a means to correct societal wrongs, aimed for a radical reformation of society in harsh isolation, though it was unfortunate that Ritter’s philosophical writings published in newspapers had made them famous eccentrics. Not long after, their solitary lifestyle attracted new residents: Heinz Wittmer, an idealistic war veteran, and his young wife Margret, who were seeking a self-reliant life for their growing family.

Introducing a capitalist high-roller, Baroness Eloise (De Armas), accompanied by her admirers, seems like the worst possible fit in this blend of idealistic rebels and hardworking commoners. This extravagant woman plans to establish an elite resort, Hacienda Paradiso, on Floreana island. Instead of peacefully coexisting, she aims to stir conflict between the grumbling Ritter and the diligent Wittmers, who had been maintaining a tolerable distance until now.

The island, with a gloomy, unwelcoming atmosphere captured by cinematographer Mathias Herndl, seemed too small to accommodate all the new-world pioneers in the movie. Yet, the film’s two hours provide ample space for their depictions. Director Howard’s liberal approach towards his actors ensures that this cast remains a dynamic and volatile group of contrasting elements. While performances may not always embody nuanced or forceful characters, they are entertaining due to the rough-edged portrayal of personalities. The editing style that emphasizes movement over stability adds to this chaotic feel.

In its most unrefined (or perhaps overdramatic?) state, when De Armas’ intense demeanor borders on camp or Law’s pomposity is tinged with a touch of desperation, the scene might evoke memories of pre-Code movies like the 1932 “The Most Dangerous Game.” In these films, where humans at their worst were captivatingly portrayed in an exotic setting, was particularly intriguing. Although “Eden” doesn’t build to a grand climax but rather fades away subtly, this shouldn’t lead one to dismiss the movie. Spending time with the absurd antics of isolated power-hungry individuals allows for a break from reading the day’s headlines.

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2025-08-23 22:01