highly original, surreal, romantic and sad

Rating: Null/10 (21 March 2004)

A lot of people will see this film expecting a gushy date film or chick flick. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is nothing of the sort.
Jim Carrey provides his most vulnerable performance, serious performance to date. Kate Winslet is the Gen Xer who is both desirable and yet difficult at the same time. Both actors portray characters who are against their usual types.
Winslet's character (Clementine)decides to erase her memories of the Carrey character (Joel). Upon learning this, Joel opts for the same procedure. However, while his memory is being erased, he changes his mind as he relishes the good memories he had with her. We see flashbacks that morph between one another, in settings that become surreal and dream-like. At times, it's humorous and poignant but not overly sentimental.
This film falls a bit short, though, of providing a knockout impact. Still, it's unique and daring. Written by Charlie Kaufaman, screenplay writer for "Being John Malkovich" and the brilliant "Adaptation. Go see this with an open mind and patience, otherwise take your date to something more pedestrian.
by Triniman