Saturday, C4, 10:15 pm
Everything Everywhere All at Once is a film that defies categorization—a wild, genre-blending odyssey through the multiverse that pulses with emotional depth and riotous energy. Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert (the Daniels), the film tells the story of Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh), a laundromat owner who finds herself at the center of an interdimensional crisis. The Daniels juxtapose absurd humor with profound existentialism, crafting a narrative that explores themes of family, identity, and the overwhelming chaos of modern life. The film’s audacious visuals, kaleidoscopic storytelling, and Michelle Yeoh’s breathtaking performance make it a cinematic spectacle that demands not only attention but also reflection.
Equally daring is the film’s eclectic soundtrack, composed by experimental rock band Son Lux. Their score is a musical multiverse in itself, deftly balancing intricate orchestration with electronic flourishes. Tracks like “This Is A Life,” featuring Mitski and David Byrne, encapsulate the film’s core themes of interconnectedness and emotional vulnerability. Son Lux’s ability to pivot from the operatic to the intimate mirrors Evelyn’s journey through the multiverse, creating a soundscape that is as dynamic and unpredictable as the narrative. Each piece feels purpose-built for the film’s shifting tones, from zany martial-arts sequences to poignant family confrontations.
Beyond its original score, the film’s broader musical choices further enhance its eccentric charm. Notable inclusions such as a cheeky rendition of “Clair de Lune” and the playful use of traditional Chinese melodies ground the film in both its cultural roots and its penchant for surreal humor. The soundtrack doesn’t just accompany the film—it becomes an extension of its chaotic yet tender heart, blending disparate elements into a cohesive whole. Everything Everywhere All at Once is a cinematic and musical masterpiece that proves the Daniels are not just pushing the boundaries of film but also redefining how music and storytelling collide in today’s cinema.
- Daisy Rae