A24's second major rom-com of the year, following the success of the acclaimed Materialists, presents a concept that is, as industry insiders would say, “high concept.” Titled Eternity and directed by Irish filmmaker David Freyne, this film takes a unique approach by exploring the afterlife. While many movies have ventured into this territory, Eternity, based on a script by Patrick Cunnane and co-written by Freyne, feels reminiscent of classics like Albert Brooks’ brilliant Defending Your Life and the charming 1976 Brazilian film Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands, which later inspired the less successful 1982 remake Kiss Me Goodbye.
At the heart of Eternity lies a captivating love triangle, where a woman is faced with the challenging decision of choosing which husband she will spend eternity with. This premise is unapologetically traditional, echoing the sparkling comedies of Hollywood’s golden age, such as The Philadelphia Story featuring Cary Grant, James Stewart, and Katharine Hepburn, or The Bishop’s Wife, which starred Grant alongside Loretta Young and David Niven. Imagine if these legendary stars were alive today; they would undoubtedly bring Eternity to life in ways that might elevate the film beyond its current execution.
Instead, we have Miles Teller portraying Larry Cutler, a devoted husband married to his wife Joan, played by Elizabeth Olsen, for an impressive 67 years. Joan is currently bedridden, battling terminal cancer. In an unexpected twist, it is Larry who dies first. After his death, Larry finds himself in the afterlife, rejuvenated to his prime age, embarking on a train to the Junction—a bustling stop that determines where individuals will spend their eternity.
Upon arrival, Larry meets Anna, played by Da’Vine Joyce Randolph, the coordinator assigned to guide him. While Larry longs for Joan and is resistant to the endless advertising schemes promising a dream existence, Joan soon appears, leading to a heartfelt reunion. However, complications arise when they encounter Luke, portrayed by Callum Turner, a bartender at the Junction who has been there for 67 years, mirroring the length of Larry and Joan's marriage. The moment Joan sees Luke, an undeniable spark ignites, revealing a past that has lingered long after Luke's death during the Korean War.
The storyline unravels as Joan must navigate the emotional turmoil of choosing between the man she built a life with and her first love, whose life was tragically cut short. The Junction allows only a week for her to make this monumental decision; otherwise, she risks being banished to work there indefinitely, much like Luke. Driven by her rather whimsical coordinator Ryan (John Early), who competes with Anna, Joan is granted a week with each man at Mountain World, a whimsical setting designed to help her make a choice.
As the narrative unfolds, viewers witness the tension build as Joan grapples with her decision. Should she choose the man she shared nearly seven decades of life with, complete with children and grandchildren, or the one who captured her heart in youth? This central dilemma drives the film, providing ample opportunity for humor and heartwarming moments.
During its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, the initially enthusiastic audience gradually became quieter as the film progressed. Although it recovers towards the end, the thin premise requires more substance to keep it engaging throughout. As a lighthearted rom-com, Eternity needs sharp wit and clever writing to resonate fully, and while Cunnane’s script has its moments, particularly in scenes featuring Randolph, other comedic scenarios fall flat.
The casting, though ideal for a film of this genre, doesn't quite hit the mark. Teller, as Larry, delivers a commendable performance, while Olsen shines in her role, albeit not reaching the iconic heights of Hepburn. Turner, a talented British actor known for his roles in The Boys in the Boat and Masters of the Air, struggles to embody the dreamboat character he is meant to portray, lacking chemistry with Olsen.
Where Eternity truly excels is in its vibrant production design, crafted by Zazu Myers, and the stunning cinematography by Ruairi O’Brien. Freyne’s imaginative portrayal of the afterlife captivates visually, yet the film would benefit from tighter editing before its official release on November 26.
In conclusion, Eternity offers a fresh take on the rom-com genre, blending elements of fantasy and romance with a thought-provoking premise. As viewers journey through this afterlife adventure, they are left to ponder the complexities of love, choice, and the passage of time, making it a film worth experiencing this holiday season.
