Elizabeth Olsen’s ‘Eternity’ Rom-Com Explores Unique Scientific Origins
A24’s latest fantasy film, *Eternity*, features a unique blend of romance and science fiction. The story centers on Joan, portrayed by Elizabeth Olsen, a woman in her nineties who navigates a bureaucratic afterlife known as The Junction after her death. Joan must choose one of her two deceased husbands to spend eternity with, setting up an intriguing love triangle.
Plot Overview of *Eternity*
Upon arriving in The Junction, Joan learns she has one week to decide between two significant figures from her past: Larry, her husband of 65 years, and Luke, her first spouse who died during the Korean War. With decades and memories at stake, her choice raises questions about the essence of love and commitment.
The Junction: A Bureaucratic Afterlife
- The Junction: A vibrant, chaotic space reflecting a unique cosmology.
- Theme-based afterlives: Include options like Mountain Eternity and Capitalism Eternity.
- Choosing an eternity: Decisions are permanent; hesitation leads to mundane jobs and subpar living conditions.
The setting prompts viewers to ponder the rules governing this afterlife, although the film does not delve into the origins of its bizarre bureaucracy. Director David Freyne describes The Junction as inspired by a 1960s tourism expo, reflecting a vision of a chaotic utopia.
Scientific Underpinnings
The film’s premise ties into scientific concepts, specifically related to memory and its permanence. Freyne mentioned an intriguing idea about the ARC protein and a virus that enables memories to persist beyond physical existence. This notion forms the backbone of The Junction, where memories harbor and influence the choices souls face.
World-Building Elements
Freyne and co-writer Patrick Cunnane meticulously crafted the structure of The Junction, intentionally linking its design to human memories. Key features include:
- Rail systems representing the flow of memories.
- Deliberately constructed architecture mimicking film sets to evoke familiarity.
- A layered bureaucracy leading up to a mysterious figure named Kevin.
While the film poses various existential questions, it primarily focuses on Joan’s emotional journey and choices. The directors have hinted at potential future explorations of The Junction’s deeper lore, possibly in a TV spin-off.
Conclusion
*Eternity*, now in theaters, merges romance with thought-provoking themes of memory and choice. Elizabeth Olsen’s portrayal of Joan adds emotional depth to this innovative narrative, which invites audiences to reflect on love and the afterlife in unusual ways.
