First Reformed

Lore & Background

Within the A24 universe, First Reformed occupies a unique space as a modern allegory for the crisis of belief in an age of ecological destruction. The film's world is defined by silence, dust, and the oppressive weight of a decaying church that mirrors the protagonist's crumbling psyche. It suggests that when traditional structures of faith fail to address the existential threats facing humanity, individuals may be driven toward radical, destructive acts in search of meaning.

The story operates on a dual timeline, weaving together the present-day turmoil with flashbacks that reveal the deep-seated trauma fueling Toller's transformation. This narrative structure emphasizes how past wounds shape current actions, turning a simple pastoral duty into a harrowing journey through the darkness of the human soul.

In Their Own Story

The fluorescent light hums low in the empty sanctuary, casting long shadows across the pews where dust motes dance like suspended prayers. Toller sits alone at his desk, the silence pressing against his ears until it becomes a roar. He stares at the small notebook he has kept for years, the pages filled with scribbled confessions and desperate pleas to a God who seems increasingly absent. Outside, the wind howls through the skeletal trees of upstate New York, carrying the scent of smoke and decay. He closes his eyes, feeling the weight of the world's suffering pressing down on his chest, wondering if the only path left is one of absolute silence or total destruction.

Reader's Guide

First Reformed was directed by Paul Schrader, a veteran filmmaker known for Taxi Driver and Raging Bull, marking his return to feature films after a long hiatus. The film stars Ethan Hawke as Reverend Toller, supported by Amanda Seyfried in her first major dramatic role with A24. The plot follows a pastor who takes on the counseling of an eco-activist couple, leading him down a dark path of spiritual and physical deterioration.

Upon its release at the Sundance Film Festival, the film received critical acclaim for Hawke's intense performance and Schrader's atmospheric direction. Critics praised its slow-burn tension and moral ambiguity, noting it as one of the most challenging yet rewarding films of the year. It solidified A24's reputation for championing auteur-driven cinema that dares to explore uncomfortable truths.

Culturally, First Reformed has become a touchstone for discussions on climate anxiety and the crisis of modern religion within independent film circles. Its stark visual style and thematic depth have influenced subsequent works in the genre, proving that A24 is not just a distributor but a curator of profound artistic statements.

Did You Know?

• Ethan Hawke lost significant weight for the role to physically embody the character's spiritual and physical decline.
• Paul Schrader wrote the screenplay specifically with Ethan Hawke in mind, tailoring the character to the actor's unique intensity.
• The film was shot on 35mm film stock to achieve a gritty, textured look that contrasts with modern digital cinematography.