I would have to politely disagree that the choice of aspect ratio is merely artsy fartsy or part of a trend. Are there films that do this? Sure, but to lump them all together would be unfair and I would be really sad if all films were the same widescreen aspect ratio - I know nobody is saying make all films the same aspect ratio here, but I can't help think of so many films where the format choice is integral to the film.
(Also, the IMAX 70mm format gets pretty close to the square side of things so y'know, can't be that bad
)
In the case of The Lighthouse, with the low budget and no need to appeal to mass market the filmmakers were free to experiment and do something unique. It would have been far cheaper and easier to shoot this film traditionally, but instead this choice gave way for some really exciting and varied cinematography through it. I'd recommend listening to the A24 podcast featuring Ari Aster and Robert Eggers, they chat about their films, both two apiece now, and it's generally quite interesting, but they do also speak of their influences, why they love those films and why they wanted to include some of those essences in their films.
I will admit tho, if you were going to watch The Lighthouse on a small cheap telly in the corner of your room, you probably wouldn't have a very good time.
Steelbook? Yes will be getting this one, fingers crossed on the finish