Eternal Sunshine Review

I recently watched Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, directed by Michel Gondry, after hearing so much about it over the years. Eternal Sunshine was one of the most critically acclaimed films of 2004 and continues to be held in a high position in the film world because of its beautiful cinematography and enthralling storyline. Gondry is able to create a story about the helpless pain of falling out of love with somebody. The narrative can be overwhelming, considering most of it is not in chronological order, but that aspect also contributes to how messy relationships can be. The main character, Joel (Jim Carrey), decides he wants to undergo an operation to erase all memories of his ex-girlfriend Clementine (Kate Winslet). However, as Joel relives their relationship, he realizes that those memories are too important, too precious to forget. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that just because some memories are painful, erasing or suppressing them is not a healthy solution. Getting out of a long relationship can be agonizing, but it can leave you with important lessons and important memories.

First, Eternal Sunshine uses surreal imagery that captivates throughout the entire length of the story.  Gondry and his team mostly used natural lighting in the film. In the scene where Clem brings Joel to her apartment for the first time, the only lighting used is the lamps in the apartment. When the characters stand in front of the lamps, they cast a shadow. The use of natural lighting gives the whole scene a definitive realistic look, it makes viewers feel like they really are just two people in a quaint little apartment, not actors on a movie set. Other times, the lighting provides flashbacks with the effect of a lucid dream. Spotlights are used as the source of light to show Joel's memories as they flood out of him, creating a foggy, disorienting effect.

The film is set in Long Island, New York in the dead of winter. The location of the film alone is juxtaposed to the keyword of the film's name: "Sunshine". Joel's town is grey, dismal, and unfriendly. People are rushing around in their winter coats trying to shelter themselves from the cold; nobody appears to be friendly. This dreary town reflects Joel's character: a sullen introvert living a mundane life.

Joel's serious, moody predisposition is integral to the film because it beautifully contrasts with Clementine's. Clementine is outgoing and eccentric, she is everything that Joel is not. She is able to literally and figuratively bring color into Joel's world during the beginning of their relationship. Literally, because she opens Joel up to new experiences, like walking on a frozen lake under the stars. Figuratively, because of the vivid colors that she dyes her hair. Clem's hair is the dominant feature of most shots because of it contrasts the world around her and because it correlates with what is happening in the story. It is apparent that Clementine's hair colors reflect what is happening in her life. For example, when her and Joel first get involved, she dyes it a bright, fiery red. This symbolizes passion, which is common in a budding relationship. Later, when Joel and Clementine lose interest in each other, her hair is bright orange. The orange symbolizes danger and anxiety as the pair no longer feel any passion in their relationship.

Personally, I thought Eternal Sunshine was a masterpiece. It exceeded my expectations by capturing reality in such a subtle way. The natural lighting made the scenes feel authentic without any over the top special effects. Joel and Clementine's relationship was not very memorable, there was no great love story. Therefore, it was able to evoke familiar emotions, because, in reality, not every relationship is a grand love story. Gondry saw no sense in amping up their relationship for the sake of the movie. Also, I am a big fan of Jim Carrey and seeing him perform well in a dramatic role was refreshing. Carrey successfully played the part of a withdrawn, moody character without making ridiculous faces or jokes. I think he worked very well together with Kate Winslet. Consequently, I give this movie a 'Good, Good' rating because I was captivated in the story and the surreal cinematic imagery.