This article contains spoilers about the film Eden. Directed by Ron Howard, this gripping thriller delves into the real-life events of what became known as the Galapagos Affair. In 1929, a group of eight Europeans, disillusioned by the rise of fascism and the impending world war, sought refuge on the uninhabited island of Floreana. Tragically, only half of this group would survive the harrowing journey and subsequent conflicts that unfolded on the island.
At the beginning of the film, a title card states, “Inspired by the accounts of those who survived.” This message was crucial for Ron Howard, who wanted to ensure audiences understood that Eden is based on a true story. Reflecting on his earlier work on Apollo 13, Howard recounted a test screening where an audience member expressed disbelief over the film's authenticity, leading him to realize the importance of presenting stories that are indeed stranger than fiction.
Eden follows the journey of Dr. Friedrich Ritter (played by Jude Law) and his lover Dore Strauch (portrayed by Vanessa Kirby), who left the chaos of Berlin for the wilds of Floreana Island. Ritter documented their experiences in letters that were occasionally picked up by passing ships, garnering significant media attention back in Europe. This unexpected publicity attracted other settlers, including the Wittmer family: Heinz (played by Daniel Brühl), his wife Margret (played by Sydney Sweeney), and their son Harry (portrayed by Jonathan Tittel).
Initially, relations among the settlers were strained yet manageable. However, the arrival of the flamboyant Baroness Eloise Wehrborn de Wagner-Bosquet (played by Ana de Armas) and her lovers, Rudy Lorenz (portrayed by Felix Kammerer) and Robert Phillipson (played by Toby Wallace), escalated tensions. The Baroness's audacious claims of ownership over the island led to a fierce power struggle characterized by deceit and, as suggested in the film, murder. These conflicts culminate in shocking violence, including Ritter's fatal shooting of the Baroness and Heinz's stabbing of her lover, Robert.
The film concludes with a title card revealing that Rudy, the Baroness's remaining lover, was later found dead alongside the boat captain who attempted to rescue him. Their bodies were discovered 150 miles away after their boat ran out of fuel. In stark contrast, the real-life fates of the Baroness and Robert remain shrouded in mystery, as their bodies were never found. Dore ultimately returned to Germany, passing away in 1943 from complications related to multiple sclerosis, while Margret Wittmer continued to live on Floreana until her death in 2000, at the age of 96.
Ron Howard meticulously researched the accounts of those involved, including discussions with local residents and descendants of the Wittmer family. He acknowledged the ambiguity surrounding the final violent events on the island, stating that various accounts offered vague accusations about the actions of the settlers. For example, Margret's narrative suggested that Dore intentionally poisoned her husband, a claim Dore vehemently denied. Through careful examination of these accounts, Howard and screenwriter Noah Pink crafted a plausible narrative that captures the essence of these tumultuous events.
One particularly harrowing scene involves Margret giving birth alone in a cave, surrounded by wild dogs. Howard confirmed the scene's authenticity, emphasizing its intensity and the challenges it presented during filming. A pivotal luncheon scene, which serves as a climax for the film's escalating tensions, was also inspired by Howard's research and proved to be a significant challenge for the cast, particularly Ana de Armas.
Regardless of the film's accuracy, Eden uniquely focuses on the women who arrive on Floreana. Howard notes that these women, initially perceived as subservient, ultimately take charge of their survival and the well-being of their families. This perspective provides a fresh lens through which to view the historical events, allowing the actresses to portray complex and memorable characters.
Eden is currently playing in theaters, inviting audiences to experience this thrilling and thought-provoking adaptation of a wild true story. For more movie news, including trailers, celebrity interviews, and film reviews, consider signing up for Entertainment Weekly's free newsletter.
