As the credits roll on Eddington, many viewers may find themselves sitting in their seats, contemplating the intense political commentary and the complex character arcs. But for those who remain until the very end, the after-credits scene offers a crucial piece of the puzzle. Ari Aster, never one to shy away from pushing boundaries, uses this moment to tie together the film’s provocative themes in a darkly ironic way.
For Aster, the after-credits scene isn’t just a teaser for future films—it’s a powerful punchline. It provides a further commentary on the film’s central theme: the manipulation of reality. Through this scene, Aster gives us a final glance at the aftermath of the chaos, allowing us to reflect on the devastating consequences of the very forces the film critiques.
What Happens in the After-Credits Scene?
In the final scene, we see Joe Cross (Joaquin Phoenix), now a wheelchair-bound figurehead, an empty symbol of the resistance he once fought for. Despite winning the mayoral race, he has become a pawn in the hands of corporate elites. His victory is hollow—he is nothing more than a figurehead in a town that has been overtaken by corporate interests.
This visual is a sharp commentary on the film’s core critique: the collapse of meaningful resistance in the face of overwhelming power. Joe, who believed in standing up for the little guy, ends up as an empty vessel used for political theater. It’s a dark twist that highlights the futility of fighting against systems that are too large to challenge.
The Irony of Joe Cross’s Victory
The after-credits scene shows Joe as a symbol of false hope. He has won, but at what cost? The data center he once opposed is built, and the corporate elites now control the town’s future. Joe’s political crusade, which began with such passion and defiance, ends with him as little more than a puppet.
This scene encapsulates the tragedy of Joe’s journey. His initial fight against what he saw as the powers that be has ultimately been hijacked by those very powers. The irony is not lost: the town has been changed, but not in the way Joe had envisioned.
The Aftermath: A Lesson on Manipulation
Aster’s use of the after-credits scene serves as a sharp reminder of the central theme of Eddington: the manipulation of narratives and reality. Joe, in his desperate attempt to preserve a sense of justice, becomes complicit in the very systems he fought against. The film asks us to reflect on how easily we can be manipulated by forces that are often beyond our control.
The corporate elites who now pull the strings behind Joe’s political career have won, and the film leaves us with the unsettling thought that, in the end, we are all vulnerable to manipulation in the complex web of power.
A Darkly Ironic Ending
Eddington may be full of twists, but it’s the after-credits scene that delivers the most biting commentary. It perfectly encapsulates the film’s cynical view of politics, power, and the fragility of truth. Joe, once a symbol of resistance, is now a puppet for the very forces he sought to oppose.
Aster’s choice to end the film in this way is a reminder that, in the battle between individual defiance and institutional power, the latter often prevails. The after-credits scene is more than just a narrative conclusion—it’s a final reflection on the state of our world, where power and control are often out of our hands.
A Cinematic Reflection on Our Times
As viewers exit Eddington, the after-credits scene lingers, leaving a lasting impression. It’s a final meditation on the disillusionment that has become all too familiar in today’s world. Joe Cross’s downfall is a reflection of the broader struggles we face in our own lives: the challenge of maintaining our beliefs in the face of overwhelming societal pressures.
By ending the film on such a note, Aster forces us to question the systems that shape our reality and the ways in which we, too, might become pawns in a game we didn’t sign up for. The after-credits scene in Eddington may be brief, but it’s one of the most profound moments in the film, underscoring the movie’s ultimate message with devastating clarity.
What This Means for the Future of Eddington
While Eddington may not be a traditional franchise with sequels waiting to happen, the after-credits scene leaves room for reflection. Aster’s exploration of power, manipulation, and personal disillusionment will likely resonate with viewers long after the credits roll. The final image of Joe Cross serves as a reminder that in a world where narratives are controlled by those at the top, true resistance is often a fleeting illusion.
In conclusion, the after-credits scene is an essential part of Eddington, offering a final, dark reflection on the film’s themes. For those who truly want to understand the full impact of Aster’s vision, this moment of dark irony is key to unlocking the film’s most profound message.
