There are two types of science fiction: one where the futuristic elements are overt and obvious, and the kind where the world is our own, save for one small change.Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind falls into the latter category.
The future element in question is Lacuna, Inc., a service that has the ability to selectively erase memories. Clementine (Kate Winslet) has impulsively used the service to remove her memories of her boyfriend, Joel (Jim Carrey), after a nasty argument. Upon hearing the news, Joel decides to use the service himself to remove his own memories of Clementine- only to realize, once the procedure is already underway, that he wants to remember her after all.
Spotless Mind is a very visual film, as is characteristic of director Michel Gondry. Certain colors help denote when the film is currently set (the non-linear narrative would likely get confusing otherwise); other colors define the mood of the scene; and as Joel's memories disappear, the world appears to dissolve in various unsettling ways- all to great effect.
The central relationship between Joel and Clementine is crucial to the plot, and Winslet & Carrey are perfect for it. As we watch them meet, and go through their good and bad times, they both have moments where they gain or lose the audience's sympathy- but they never stop being understandable or relatable. And, for what it's worth, Winslet does a great American accent.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a complex movie, difficult to describe in a single review, and definitely encourages repeat viewings. It's far from inaccessible, though- you should definitely check it out.
Awesome
I'd say this movie is awesome as well, but don't watch when you are single. You will be begging for a gf in no time.
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