Eternity centers on Joan, who faces a profound dilemma: choosing between her first love, Luke, and her lifelong husband, Larry. The film presents a distinctive vision of the afterlife, where people can decide both where they spend eternity and with whom. Joan’s situation is complicated because both deceased husbands are present, each representing a different kind of love. The story explores the tension between past desire and lifelong commitment, forming the emotional core of the film.
Joan initially decides to reunite with Luke, who died during the Korean War. Their reunion is full of emotion, emphasizing the intensity and nostalgia of first love. Luke has waited for decades to be with Joan again, which creates urgency and longing. The film portrays their relationship realistically, showing that while their love is strong, it is also imperfect. Neither Luke nor Larry is depicted as a villain, highlighting that love is complex and that there are no simple right or wrong choices.
The Afterlife’s Rules Shape Choices, Limbo, And Consequences For Joan’s Decisions
In Eternity, the afterlife functions as a structured but bureaucratic space. Souls who have not chosen a path or found purpose remain in a limbo-like state. Some, like Anna, find meaning by helping others navigate the afterlife. The rules are strict, and attempting to escape a chosen eternity can lead to being cast into a void, which is described as the closest thing to hell. This system raises the stakes for Joan’s decision and shows the serious consequences of her choice.
Eternity (A24)As Joan spends time with Luke, she begins to notice the limitations of their renewed romance. Their initial happiness fades as the differences that once separated them in life become clear. Luke is active in ways that Joan is not, which highlights how idealized love from memory may clash with reality. Luke ultimately acknowledges this and helps Joan move toward Larry, her lifelong partner, who truly complements her personality and life experiences. This illustrates the distinction between fleeting passion and lasting connection.
Enduring Love Over First Passion Shows True Commitment and Shared Life Experiences
The contrast between Joan’s relationships with Luke and Larry demonstrates the film’s central theme: the tension between temporary passion and enduring love. Joan’s love for Luke is nostalgic and dreamlike, while her bond with Larry is grounded in shared history and everyday intimacy. Larry knows Joan deeply, from her habits to her preferences, showing a love built over the years. This enduring love provides stability, trust, and understanding that first love alone cannot offer.
Ultimately, Joan chooses Larry, embracing a love defined by shared experiences, loyalty, and mutual commitment. Larry is willing to risk his own afterlife to stay near Joan, emphasizing that true love requires selflessness and dedication. The film ends with the couple in a suburban afterlife that reflects the life they built together. Eternity delivers a bittersweet but satisfying message: lasting love is not only about passion or perfect beginnings, but about connection, shared experiences, and growing together over a lifetime.
