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Eternity

Eternity

8.5/10
2025114 min

In an afterlife where souls have one week to decide where to spend eternity, Joan is faced with the impossible choice between the man she spent her life with and her first love, who died young and has waited decades for her to arrive.

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Review

8.5/10

David Freyne's 'Eternity' presents a delightful metaphysical puzzle wrapped in a romantic comedy-drama, asking what happens when the afterlife offers not finality but a seven-day decision window. The film follows Joan (Elizabeth Olsen), who arrives in a curiously bureaucratic afterlife waystation where souls must choose their eternal destination. Her dilemma is profoundly human: between Ben (Miles Teller), the stable husband with whom she built a full life, and Leo (Callum Turner), her passionate first love who died young and has been waiting decades for her arrival. Freyne cleverly uses this high-concept premise to explore themes of love, regret, and the roads not taken, all while maintaining a surprisingly light touch. The afterlife is depicted not as a celestial realm but as a quirky, slightly bureaucratic resort—think 'The Good Place' meets 'The Lobster'—where souls attend orientation seminars and awkward mixers. Olsen delivers a nuanced performance, perfectly capturing Joan's confusion, guilt, and dawning realization. Teller brings grounded warmth as Ben, while Turner smolders with romantic idealism. Da'Vine Joy Randolph nearly steals the film as a no-nonsense afterlife guide, providing both comic relief and poignant wisdom. At 114 minutes, the film occasionally meanders in its middle section, but Freyne's confident direction and the sparkling chemistry among the cast keep the emotional stakes high. The production design is cleverly mundane, making the extraordinary premise feel relatable, and the score subtly underscores the film's shifting tones between romance, comedy, and existential drama.

Pros

  • Elizabeth Olsen's layered performance that anchors the film's emotional core
  • The inventive and witty world-building of the afterlife bureaucracy
  • Strong supporting turns from Da'Vine Joy Randolph and Miles Teller
  • A genuinely thoughtful exploration of love and choice without heavy-handed sentimentality

Cons

  • The middle act sags slightly with repetitive romantic dilemma scenes
  • Callum Turner's character feels underwritten compared to the other leads
  • Some tonal shifts between comedy and drama aren't entirely seamless
FINAL VERDICT
8.5/10

'Eternity' is a charming, thought-provoking film that succeeds where many high-concept romances fail: it makes its metaphysical premise feel intimately human. While not without minor flaws—particularly some pacing issues in its middle section—the film delivers genuine emotional depth alongside its clever comedy. Olsen's performance is award-worthy, and Freyne's direction balances the whimsical afterlife setting with authentic relationship drama. The final act delivers satisfying emotional payoff without resorting to easy answers, leaving audiences with plenty to discuss about love, life, and what comes after. For viewers seeking a romantic film with substance, originality, and heart, 'Eternity' is a standout. It's the rare film that can make you laugh, tear up, and ponder your own life choices, all within a beautifully crafted package. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys smart, character-driven stories with a touch of the supernatural.

🎯 Who Should Watch

Fans of thoughtful romantic comedies, metaphysical dramas like 'The Good Place' or 'Defending Your Life', and character-driven stories about love and regret. Also ideal for viewers who appreciate strong ensemble casts and inventive premises.

⭐ Standout Elements

Elizabeth Olsen's captivating lead performance, the clever and original world-building of the afterlife bureaucracy, and the film's ability to balance genuine philosophical questions with warm humor and romance.

🎬 Overall Impact

A must-watch film that delivers on both entertainment and emotional depth.

📽️ This film represents exceptional filmmaking that deserves your attention.

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Movie Info

Runtime:114 minutes
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