If Eden (2024)’s events weren’t grounded in truth, they would seem like a fantasy. It starts off darkly but soon turns into a campy examination of human nature, which is frequently petty, risky, and competitive. Despite Friedrich’s beliefs in preserving humanity, it is ironic because he despises people and takes on the characteristics of those he accuses others of having. Friedrich embodies conceit, and Eden unfolds like a grown-up adaptation of The Lord of the Flies.

It’s less dark and more fun (seriously, the comedy is a big reason to watch the movie), exploring the way social class and the idea of survival of the fittest test the characters. Howard and Pink provoke us to take sides, just like the characters do. But the game the characters are playing isn’t one that’s fair, and the chess pieces are always moving. There are lulls in the story, as the initial setup starts to wane, but it paves the way for something more enticing and satisfying.