
First Reformed is a gripping drama that centers on Pastor Ernst Toller, portrayed by Ethan Hawke, who shepherds a small church in upstate New York. The plot unfolds as Toller experiences a profound personal and spiritual crisis following his encounter with an unstable environmental activist and the activist's pregnant wife, Mary Mensana, played by Amanda Seyfried. This encounter propels the pastor into a spiral of doubt and anguish as he grapples with his beliefs and the future of humanity.
The film delves deep into themes of faith, despair, and environmental degradation. It explores the tension between religious convictions and moral responsibility in the face of ecological disaster, examining how personal trauma intersects with global issues. Pastor Toller's internal struggle manifests larger questions about redemption, activism, and the consequences of human neglect on the planet, making the movie a poignant commentary on contemporary anxieties.
First Reformed received critical acclaim for its intense performances and thought-provoking narrative, with Ethan Hawke's portrayal of Pastor Toller earning particular praise. The film's somber tone and philosophical depth resonated with audiences and critics alike, influencing conversations around environmentalism and spiritual crisis in popular culture. Its impact endures as a compelling meditation on hope, despair, and the urgent need for action in a fragile world.