In the movie Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind there are quite a lot of ideas and themes that are worth taking thought. And like all good works of cinematography, this movie not only tells us about the stories, feelings and actions of the characters but also helps to know yourself better. This self-awareness comes when a spectator compares the behavior and thoughts of the characters, their motives and desires with one’s own. Personally, I would like to point the inner experiences of Joel, his subconscious fear to enter into a serious relationship, and, in a sense, to grow up and learn to make adult, independent decisions. Looking at the main character, it becomes clear how indecision and fear of new experiences, as well as the reluctance to bear at least some responsibility, can become a cause of great unhappiness.
However, often, people are given another chance. It is a chance to fix their mistakes, but frequently we do not notice it and miss the opportunity. The movie Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind also teaches us that such chances should be taken. So, when all seemed already lost, and the characters are going to part once and for all, Joel asks Clementine to stay (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind). And this act is very different from those that he made throughout the movie. All the time he never tried to fight for Clementine, did not ask her to be with him. All this Clementine made. However, obviously, love changed Joel, helped him transform his character and learn how to make serious decisions. From passive and weak-willed person he turns into the partner, who Clementine wanted to see next to her. At the same time, it becomes clear that if this change had not occurred, Clementine would have done absolutely the right thing by leaving her lover. The music of the movie, especially at the end, confirms the changes that have taken place in Joel. All together is a second lesson that I learned from this movie. He taught me that second chance to make a difference is always given, even if it seems that everything is lost. Only need to be attentive ado not to make mistakes of the past.
But, there is another thing that I realized after watching this movie. People should not be afraid of strong feelings and emotions just because they may interfere with their comfort. Joel by his own example clearly shows this. So, before meeting Clementine, he said that he does not like parties, but when we are shown his memories, there are footage of the party and all their adventures and walks flashed (Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind). It absolutely cannot be called peace, and it is so different from the lifestyle that they have started to lead shortly before Clementine decided to erase the memory of these relationships. The movie makers show the contrast between the happy events of the past and the dull existence of the present. This story shows that peace does not always mean happiness, and this is another thing the audience needs to understand after watching this movie.
Works Cited
Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind. Focus Features: Steve Golin, 2004. video.
