The CHIEF September 2023

Everything Everywhere All at Once

Movie Review

By Tyler Drechsel

Most people know about the concept of the multiverse. However, some people can’t grasp the idea of truly unlimited possibilities. Everything Everywhere All At Once is a film that truly understands the concept of the multiverse, and uses it in order to create comedy, emotional moments, and give the viewers something to think very deeply about. Everything Everywhere All At Once is a sci-fi comedy that managed to score three Oscars for acting, directing, and the big prize, Best Picture. This is a film that has immediately established itself as an all time classic. But what is it about this film that makes it so incredible? For those who don’t know, Everything Everywhere All At Once is about an immigrant mother from China, named Evelyn. She’s in a place where her life isn’t going the very best. She runs a laundry place for a living, she’s struggling to gain her father’s approval, she’s struggling to accept her daughter’s sexuality, and on top of everything, she’s being investigated for tax fraud. One day however, Evelyn gets a visit from her husband from a different universe, who tells her that she has the power to help fight against an evil so powerful, it could mean the end of all existence. What follows is an adventure through several universes, where Evelyn sees what her life could have been like, if she had made different choices. Now, what is it that makes this movie an incredible masterpiece? First of all, the comedy. The film takes the idea of unlimited possibilities and uses it to its advantage. There are a few well written jokes, but most of the comedy in this film comes from the absurdity it portrays. Nothing in this film is expected, and everything comes out of nowhere. When the most random, ridiculous events are thrown at you, you can’t help but die of laughter. It isn’t just comedy, but also a film that is written with love. It is one of the most well thought out, organized stories I personally have ever seen, (despite everything happening everywhere all at once.) The acting is also incredible. Everyone nails their performance, no matter how little screen time they get. The directing is unique, with a style that perfectly fits the movie. Not to mention the editing. The title is a very good description of the movie. Several different events are happening at different places, all at the same time. The editing however, makes it easy to understand what’s happening in all of the different places, no matter how much is going on. The film also has incredible themes and lessons which include the importance of family relationships, acceptance, respect, and the significant effect that one person can have on the world. This film ranks at number 14 on my list of My Top 100 Favorite Films of All Time. The theme about everyone’s life having meaning, and how everyone has an impact on the world, is incredibly well executed and gives me a positive feeling. No matter how down I feel, it lifts my spirit to know that in some way, I’ve made the world a better place. This is also one of the funniest movies I’ve ever seen with bizarre comedy that is just my kind of taste. The fantastic story and comedy is well executed thanks to the spectacular directing, acting, writing, and editing. 10/10.