User Score
8.8 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 580 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 35 out of 580

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  1. AllisonL.
    Feb 9, 2008
    10
    Perfect and TOUCHING. One of my most favorite movies ever. The message is incredible! Never gets old for me and something new is uncovered to me every time I watch it. The soundtrack is absolutely beautiful too! I've watched this probably 10 times, and I'll watch it the next time it comes on too.
  2. TroelsJ
    Jan 21, 2009
    10
    This is the perfect love movie. In every way it is perfect and clever. And I generally hate love movies, but twisting the genre into this is just a majestetic achievement. It's crazy, sad, beautiful, funny and full of love; what every love movie wants to be, but only "Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind" is.
  3. MattM.
    Jun 3, 2005
    10
    This is the only film i have seen that gives me faith in post-modern eclectism. excellent. so many touching moments. emotions captured beautifully in imagery. not concept driven but with a superb concept. not melodramatic but emotional. the characters were ecentric and interesting but relatable and their love was so universal. i feel touched when ever i hear beck's song. i just think of those last images of them holding hands on the beach. thankyou so much. Expand
  4. TylerC.
    Feb 6, 2008
    10
    This may be my favorite film ever. Perfect casting, perfect direction, perfect writing. Clementine: My crotch is still here, just as you remembered it. Joel: Yuck!
  5. StevenH.
    Jul 8, 2005
    10
    This movie was an unbelievable mix of comedy and trajedy that forced you to follow it. You can not look away for a moment or you'll miss something, and this movie makes you not want to look away for even a moment. Amazing movie.
  6. MohsenZ.
    Feb 2, 2008
    9
    It was the most powerful film in my entire life that really made me to have its dreams in nights and was a brilliant idea for more directors. HUMAN MIND... watching 1 time is really unfair.
  7. JasonJ.
    Mar 3, 2008
    9
    I had a chance to see this movie again in 2008 for only the second time. I saw it in the theater when it premiered 4 years earlier. What a piece of art! This movie goes deep into the heart of romantic love. It's not a love story, it's an internal examination of what love does to your mind. It's painful to watch at times because it dissects what most of us try to repress most of the time. But, if for just one moment, you allow yourself to "get into" this movie, you will have a deeper experience than you've ever had while viewing movie. Darwinian thought (as well as just about any religious thought) tells us that procreation is perhaps the most important of our human functions. Romantic love leads us in that venture and this movie delves into the most sensitive areas of that process. This film could have easily felt pseudointellectual had it not been for the way the film was shot. It looks like it was filmed inside someone's head - clausterphobic, impressionistic, etc. - all in the right balance. Expand
  8. Hawreh
    Jan 19, 2008
    10
    This film is one of the best movie I have ever seen in my life. and in any way is not Analogous with "being john Malkovich" and any other memory and Mind and Remembrance movies. Thanks for your rating.
  9. StanS
    Jan 9, 2008
    2
    yes it was a very different and artsy and yes i does have a fairly important message at the end which is rather hackneyed but still even if i concede all that it still isn't a good movie, because a good movie entertains and this never really entertained me. I never wondered what happened in the beginning, and when i found out it was anti-climactic even though i didn't care.
  10. Jun 23, 2012
    10
    Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a heartfelt, funny, emotionally powerful, original, heartbreaking, piece of art. It features great performances from Winslet and Carrey, and offers a nice, sweet, fresh, twist on a regular romantic comedy. I give this movie 96%.
  11. J.C.
    Mar 27, 2004
    7
    "You might as well put up a sign at the enterance of the theater: Stupid People Need Not Attend..." How about "stupid people might as well not comment on the quality of new movies unless they know how to spell"?
  12. K.James
    Jul 7, 2004
    10
    I love this movie. All the actors are so good (elijah wood). it is so funny. Jim Carrey is the best comedy actor (adam sandler sucks). Kirsten Dunst is second best actress evah. Kate Winslet is first. I love that bit where her and jim are watching the movie and he says "there are people coming out of your butt" and she says "there is?". Genius...the best movie ever!
  13. JoeH
    Jan 8, 2010
    10
    Kaufman is a genius, nuff said.
  14. RickyG.
    Oct 3, 2004
    10
    Simply beautiful film, Gondry's beautiful cinematic touch is yet again candy for us to consume. I love it!
  15. richyf
    Oct 8, 2004
    10
    Breathtaking...a story most of us could relate in some way or another and a perspective on life, love, hate, humour that deserves respect to the writer and director. Visually stunning....just brilliant!
  16. AndyG.
    Oct 8, 2004
    10
    I saw this film a few days ago on DVD (sadly having missed it at the cinema). I've barely stopped thinking about it since. It's simply one of the best films I've ever seen, so superb in every respect that I'd find it difficult to find a single flaw. Jim Carrey proves once again that he has a far greater depth as an actor than many give him credit for (adding to his wonderful performances in The Truman Show and Man on the Moon), while Kate Winslet is fantastic too. The story is confusing at times initially but it all makes perfect sense in the end, and the score fits perfectly. Anyone put off watching this masterpiece by the few negative reader reviews -- don't be. Read their reviews, see their grammatical and spelling errors and realize that they simply didn't have the ability to grasp the film at all. Just ... brilliant. Expand
  17. ShadieE.
    Mar 20, 2004
    10
    Charlie Kaufman keeps coming up with some of the most original movies ever created ... Michel Gondry implements that unique visual style where appropriate, with none of the misfires hanging over from Human Nature. The performances are all spotless, inherently creating inter-character dynamics so complex that this is a film that demands repeat viewings. Amazing.
  18. JohnY.
    Mar 20, 2004
    8
    As creative as can be, and with stellar performances, but nowhere near the excellence of "Being John Malkovich."
  19. D.Zimmerman
    Mar 29, 2004
    10
    Breathtakingly complete. This is a movie that creates it's own universe out of the mysteries of the most vital human experience, love. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind seems to be part of a general trend in the progression of art; a completeness that marries all of experience to one emotional situation (in this movie's case, the confessive "I love and wish to be loved") and then proceeds to portray any and all behavior that would arise from the situation. As a filmic text, this is new sacred ground, folks. There are enough connections to be made between themes that reinforce one another, you could build a tower right to heaven. Pardon my musings. Expand
  20. JayB.
    Mar 20, 2004
    9
    Another great movie from one of the most original screenwriters on the planet! If you love brainless action movies, by all means avoid this beautiful love story. And once again, the critic from Baltimore who loved "Twisted" (Michael Sragow-see above) gave this one 2 stars. Is there no end to the unreliabilty of his reviews???!
  21. PaulM.
    Apr 4, 2004
    10
    When I walked into the theatre I noticed that me and my 3 friends were the only teenagers in the movie. I thought what have I gotten myself into... Within the first ten minutes Of the movie I found myself in love with it. My friends on the other hand thought differently. But in the end I say one of the best movies ever!
  22. PaulH.
    Apr 6, 2004
    10
    Rent or go to see this film as it is one of the best you are likely to see. i won't go into it in too much detail but this film goes straight into my top 5 films. kaufman yet again has delivered us a breath of fresh air.
  23. ErwinK.
    May 3, 2004
    10
    God that was good.
  24. Ismelloscar
    Jan 21, 2005
    10
    This is the best movie of the year, hands down. Screw "Sideways."
  25. JonathanK
    Feb 9, 2005
    9
    You will either love or hate this movie. I hold this movie on par with great literature as "The Great Gatsby" and "Catcher In The Rye". It speaks of true to life emotions and short comings we all posses. The acting and screen play were perfect in sculpting a believable scenerio. We can see well rounded characters in this movie. Winslet is "impulisve" and unpredictable and Carrey is the typical man stuck in a rut, living a dull self loathing life. But they both have one thing in commen: they need that something in thier life so they can go beyond thier typical self. Quoting another comment "Is it really better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?". And of course the ironic title begs the question "would a spotless mind live in eternal sunshin?" In the end life is all about choice, isn't it? Expand
  26. JasonB
    Jul 10, 2005
    10
    A brilliant movie, hands down. Anyone who says they don't understand the plot should stick to Spongebob. It's great to watch a movie where the people making it assume you're intelligent. If you aren't, stay away. you might hurt yourself thinking about it.
  27. jacomien
    Sep 1, 2005
    10
    Only saw it last week... had been on my to watch list for too long. Very impressed though.
  28. JeremyR.
    Jun 28, 2006
    10
    My current favorite film. An intriguing story about relationship, the good and the bad. All those reviews in here that "didn't get it" or hated it, you're entitled to your opininions, but I'm sorry for you that you missed out on a great movie.
  29. FelixQ.
    Jul 25, 2006
    10
    Another classic of our time. There has never been another like it, nor will there ever be again. The elements conspire on this one to create something that leaves you not entirely sure what kind of movie you just watched- and loving it. Yes, it's funny, but never slapstick. Yes, it's dramatic, but it never goes Deep End of the Ocean. Yes, there are fantasy elements aplenty, but somehow it feels natural, as if the events just fit within the world of the film. There's even a mystery element, leaving you slightly confused until ut all comes together at the end. It has a slightly Donnie Darko-like quality in this way- somehow it feels like somewhere you missed something, and you have the urge to rewind and see what it was. Once all the threads are tied up, you're left with an "aaahh" sense of completetion. Complex characters, never dismissing development to focus on the more quirky elements of the film, never letting you get lazy as a viewer. No one character is a runaway favorite as each is flawed in the way they are supposed to be. One of the few movies that pulls off the darker, more morbid aspect without laying it on too thick. Outshines it's "cousin", Being John Malkovich, by a mile. My only critisism is possibly cramming just a leetle too much in there. Not enough to forfeit a point, though. Expand
  30. MathewD
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    Quite possibly one of the finest films ever made. Heart-wrenching and sweet all in one. I watch this DVD at least once a week and it never gets old. Considering my hatred of Jim Carrey, this is a remarkable and surprising use of his talent.
  31. AdamP.
    Jun 9, 2007
    7
    The movie itself was fine, although I do have trouble with a director reusing the same scenes multiple times in a movie, it comes off as laziness. There is not much to get, it seems as though the people who say, "Did you get it?" were also overly enthralled by the Butterfly Effect and find fascination in the Gilmore Girls and One Tree Hill. The movie pulls off its premise, but does not providing a "WOW" factor by any means; the only saving grace is Jim Carrey doing what he does best in a quickly moving montage of acting as different characters from his past. Save yourself the time, go see Man in the Moon instead. Expand
  32. MattC.
    Aug 23, 2007
    10
    Typically confusing, but sadly enjoyable. It really is a confusing movie but the vibe that it gives off...its very unique. Its not bad, but after rewatching another time, its not THAT comfortable. The way i recommend anybody watching it is: watch it late at night, peacefully, relaxing and let the take you in
  33. SamuelC.
    Sep 18, 2007
    10
    Beautiful and touching. Very creative.
  34. ArtiomP.
    Jan 16, 2010
    10
    To bad there are only fiew of such films.. The abstractism should predominate into more movies, because there are less people who understand them, but they could understand more, why not?
  35. HeatherD.
    Oct 17, 2004
    10
    Very heartbreaking to watch.... makes you appreciate someone you love more.
  36. HowardJ.
    Oct 22, 2004
    2
    An interesting conceit that probably reads a lot better than it views. winslet and carrey are both excellent in a confusing mish-mash of a film.
  37. ZacharyM.
    Oct 23, 2004
    10
    Excellent! Makes you laugh and think. Story catches you from the start. I'm not a huge Jim Carrey fan, but he was really good in this film. Thats the best bit of acting that I have seen in quite a while. This movie also has great replay value because you catch something new everytime.
  38. Marcus
    Mar 21, 2004
    7
    This film is inventive and well worth experiencing, but in the end I have to agree with the critics who say pairing Kaufman with Gondry is a kind of movie overload. Gondry's direction is filled with its own ideas, something Kaufman is definitely not short on. Several wacky scenes demonstrate a great synergy emanating from the duo (and the actors deserve credit too). However, Gondry, who had the idea for the story that Kaufman wrote, does not approach the script as freshly and as deftly as he does the songs he brilliantly captures as music videos. At times, Gondry seems to be directing his own video, substituting rhythm and melody with something much less soothing or toe-tapping: Kaufman's twisted and fractured screenplay. As one critic asked "Are they collaborating or competing?" Whether this translates into more bang for the viewer's buck (or less) depends a lot on who is putting down the money for admission. It is hard to dispute that the filmmakers' manic stylings are perfectly suited to the storyline. An exhaustive second act where memories are marvelously deconstructed may go so far as to test the viewer's patience: the scenes - if what makes up the meat of this movie can be called 'scenes' - are fast and furious and unlike all others movie audiences have known. Yet they seem to build to a horror-suspense crescendo that may actually be the most conventional aspect of the film. Thank goodness there are breaks supplied by airier sequences bookending the innerworld drama. Most audiences will find something that takes them in (be it the drama, horror, suspense, sci-fi, or, as it's billed, romantic-comedy - though I would insist it's of the very post-When-Harry-Met-Sally genre). Without a doubt, ESOTSM is unique and artful cinema. Expand
  39. Dave
    Mar 20, 2004
    10
    Absolutely great movie. No one writes like Kaufman, he's just pure imagination at its best. Jim Carrey's performance is his best ever, bringing emotion and nuances to a complex character. Couldn't have left the theater happier.
  40. JamesW.
    Mar 22, 2004
    9
    From the commercials I expected this to be an offbeat comedy, but it really isn't. It's a thoughtful and very creative exploration into love and sadness and what people will tolerate for love. I really liked it, as did my wife and sister.
  41. DougD.
    Mar 24, 2004
    10
    Never before I have I seen a movie that better captured the love I feel for my wife. To me, it just struck a chord and was the most realistic romance I have ever seen in my entire life, I will love this one forever.
  42. AndrewL.
    Mar 25, 2004
    1
    This seems to be a movie that you love or you hate. I think it was a mess of a movie and a bad "Vanilla Sky" feel to it. The plot was poor and the characters drudged through the mundane script. I think the target audience is film majors that hang out at Starbucks every night and like to talk about how intellectual they are. Everyone else... don't waste your time. It would be hard to find a movie out now that is worse than this one. Expand
  43. JasonT.
    Mar 27, 2004
    0
    Stupid movie. I didn't get it.
  44. JoshuaW.
    Mar 29, 2004
    10
    This is a movie I'm sure I will never forget.
  45. YeaYunC.
    Mar 31, 2004
    10
    A refreshingly thought-provoking perspective on life, love, loss and relationships, this movie was beautiful, poignant and heart wrenching. Beautifully shot, wonderfully acted and highly imaginative in the way the plot unfolded ? this exceeded my expectations on every dimension. This is one to add to my collection of all-time favorites.
  46. LisaL.
    Apr 11, 2004
    1
    Do not waste your time! This movie is incredibly boring and felt like it would never end. I don't understand how anyone could give this movie a 10! Normally I enjoy these types of films, but this one is overrated. The characters are not interesting, the plot trudges along verrrrrrry slowly, and the parts that were supposed to be funny were not.
  47. MikeB.
    Apr 16, 2004
    10
    Parts of this film are absolutely transcendent, which make up for its rather minor flaws. A movie for the ages.
  48. RickG.
    Apr 16, 2004
    9
    Eternal Sunshine works best when it stays focused on the relationship between Joel and Clementine. The movie falters when it goes off on tangents related to the messed up lives of the people doing Joel's memory erasing. Otherwise, Joel and Clementine are very amusing to watch. I liked it when Joel falls for the "She said I was the nicest man she ever met" line. Or when Joel tries to forget about Clementine's crotch. Expand
  49. PaulaW.
    Apr 18, 2004
    9
    For all the perpetual grad students out there: this is the rare postmodern narrative in which the mechanics of metastory don't get in the way of deep emotion. This is the most romantic movie I've seen in a long time. It's the romantic comedy for people who don't like romantic comedies, the romantic comedy that won't hurt your brain with its stupidity, the first romantic comedy since at least 1960 whose leads aren't nitwits that you'd just as soon bitch-slap as watch for two hours. Kate Winslet is the most convincing Gen-X bookstore-haunting crazy girl I've seen yet in a major Hollywood movie (boo on previous attempts like Winona Ryder's too-cute wannabe filmmaker in Reality Bites and Bridget Fonda's boob-job-getting slacker waitress (snort!) in Singles). She's dazzling and infuriating in equal measure. Jim Carrey is actually sort of swoonworthy as a stodgy, bookish straight man. Oh yeah, and the movie does a good job of holding up the comedy half of the romantic-comedy label. Don't say you are sick of love until you've seen this movie. Expand
  50. JonathanH.
    Apr 2, 2004
    10
    Wonderful, so far the best movie of this year, another brilliant movie from the mind of Charlie Kaufman, easily the best performance of Carrey's career, equally wonderful is Winslet.
  51. R.Kamath
    Apr 20, 2004
    5
    For a movie getting such fantastic reviews, the main characters in "Eternal Sunshine" are awfully 2-dimensional, particular Jim Carrey's character Joel, who doesn't have much of a noticable personality at all. Furthermore, Joel's relationship with Clementine is so cardboard that it seems to have virtually no meaning; not only is there absolutely no chemistry between the two, you are not really given any indication that their apparently 2 year relationship was anything but a one week fling, and a pretty sorry one at that; it's riddled with situations of conflict and negativity. But to counter these, the directors attempt to create situations of "poignancy," but they tend to feel scripted and forced rather than natural, depicting such hackneyed scenes as them running around in the snow, throwing snowballs at each other, and stargazing from a frozen lake. These scenarios uniformly smack of artifice, or at the very least lack any magical qualities-- perhaps because the main characters have no chemistry at all on the screen! Anyway, never once did I feel any regret that their relationship ended, nor did I feel any sympathy/empathy for their characters. Ultimately, the main problem I had with this movie was that it seemed apparent that the moviemakers went out of their way to try and make something oh-so-meaningful and "like, metaphysical, and stuff." It sort of works as a concept that can operate in the viewers' own mind and cause him/her to question the meaning of his/her own relationships, but on its own terms, the movie is not particularly engrossing, thrilling, or magical. It's barely adequate. Expand
  52. SarahK.
    Apr 2, 2004
    10
    Tremendous. I don't know if Charlie Kaufman can do any original screenplay wrong. The people I talked to who don't like it are the ones who want a movie to come to them and sit on their lap and just be. They don't enjoy movies where you have to think and be actively engaged. So if that's you, you might not like it. But if, on the other hand, you have spectacular taste in movies, do NOT miss this one. Expand
  53. JanelleB.
    Apr 4, 2004
    10
    This movie has to be the best I've seen in a long time. One of the best in my life. The way it was filmed, the plot line, the suspense, the romance and the humor were all timed at the perfect moment, at times I felt like crying. It's amazing that people can make films this amazing, and that people would have enough imagination to come up wtih them.
  54. AustinW.
    Apr 4, 2004
    9
    A brilliant movie. Exceptionally sad in some parts, but the good, heartbreaking kind of sad that makes you feel more human.
  55. DavidH.
    Apr 8, 2004
    10
    Fantastic movie!!! Go see it for yourself ... then you will want to see it again. Warning: This movie is intended for mature audiences only. People who are entertained by brainless hollywood garbage (i.e. films starring Bruce Willis, Dennis Quaid, or Ashley Judd, etc.), please stay home.
  56. SeanM.
    Apr 9, 2004
    10
    Overall, a great experience. Clementine seems to be the kind of girl that all guys look for to spice up a boring or uninteresting life. But that is not the role that she wants to play, Charlie Kaufman has conjured up a very smart and convincing story that portrays real human qualities through a very odd medium. It challenges the notion that we would be better off without certain memories, maybe that was true in the case of Clementine and Joel, there is no definite answer, it can go either way. Brilliant. Expand
  57. VassilisI.
    May 30, 2004
    10
    Someone can say a lot about this film, focusing on the very good acting of Carrey/Winslet or the smart direction of the film. But no words can describe the way you feel after you see this movie... Yes, it's better to love than to be loved. The best film of this season.
  58. DerekG.
    May 8, 2004
    10
    Absolutely brilliant.
  59. BrendanM.
    May 9, 2004
    10
    I've never seen a movie that made me really think about things, good or bad, like this one. Really enjoyed the acting as well as the music. I thought the moive was original and thoughtful.
  60. BJStankshaft
    Aug 10, 2004
    7
    This movie was well made and had a clever premise. The story was solid but the characters could have used some work. Kate winslet's character seemed to be pushed passed what it was in the beging and made to be crazier and crazier. The creators made all of the characters fall into a stereotype and limited their whole persona to that stereotype. They all had the emotion that they needed but they could not realisticly portray a normal person because their actions were limited to what someone of their stereotype would do. If the characters had more realistic actions and dialogue with eachother the movie could have been great. Expand
  61. KyleS.
    Aug 31, 2004
    10
    Words cannot explain how truely AMAZING this film is. I am still completely in love with it, as well as in awe of it. Simply perfect - one of the best movies I have ever seen!
  62. RJSamson
    Aug 9, 2004
    10
    One of the most thought provoking, real love stories of our generation. Its genuine look at life and love affected me so much, I had to reflect on mine as well. Great film, worthy of an Oscar nomination, especially to Kirsten Dunst, who gave the best performance in the movie for me.
  63. JoelC
    Sep 30, 2004
    10
    Theres something magical about this movie. I just totally get what the director is trying to achieve, and the characters in the movie are so believable. Excellent performances. This movie can make me laugh for one minute, and the next im thinking about the time I spent with my first true love and I cry. Such an original movie... it also makes me think about how my first true love hated this movie lol. Well, highly recommended by me. Expand
  64. PeterJ.
    Jan 20, 2005
    8
    Great movie. Carey proves once again that he is an even better actor than he is a comedian. Having Kirsten Dunst to look at, if only for a few scenes, wasn't so bad either...
  65. NormanM
    Jan 30, 2005
    10
    One of the best films I've seen in a long time. Original and touching - it was overlooked by the Academy, in my opinion.
  66. TyeN.
    Oct 8, 2005
    10
    This is by far the best movie of 2004, and one of the greatest films of all-time. Jim Carrey and Kate Wislet share a magnetic bond that evolves way past the usual chemistry in movies. They are absolutely amazing, and they were both robbed of should-be Oscars. (especially Carrey, who wasn't even nominated) This film will forever be remembered as one of the films considered a true classic from the new era of 2000 and on. Brilliant. Expand
  67. TyS.
    Feb 24, 2005
    2
    I am completely with Jen M on this one. Waste of my good time and totally forgettable.
  68. Tyler
    Feb 4, 2005
    0
    I am in the minority on this but I thought that this movie sucked. It reminded me a bit of vanilla sky but I did't understand the ending and here is another reason to hate Elijah Wood. It was just a stupid movie and Kate Winslet does not deserve best actress for it.
  69. AustinA.
    Feb 9, 2005
    10
    Truly amazing.
  70. RyanM.
    Mar 22, 2005
    9
    Kaufman doesn't disappoint with a much deserved original screenplay award. it's nice to see a hollywood produced movie that has some intellect, art and entertainment value to it. without taking itself too seriously this movie was crafty and balanced. i think the people that didn't care for this movie have neither the patience nor the brain to wrap around this type of piece.
  71. CoreyC.
    Apr 1, 2005
    3
    I expected so much more from Gondry and Kaufman. This, indeed, may have been a case of complete over-hype by everyone I know-- but I still tried to detach myself from those ideas when I watched. Amazingly, it refused to play along in the best-movie-ever-game and simply came across as a flat, placid, and emotional-vacuum of eye-candy and predictablity. Where is John Malkovich or The White Stripes to bring out the previously displayed talents of these two when you need them? Collapse
  72. MarkM.
    Apr 5, 2005
    10
    One of the best and most thought-provoking sci-fi films I've seen. Unlike in "Memento" where the chronological backwardness was a mere gimmick, here the unexplained displacements in time and place serve to heighten the emotional impact of what you're seeing. Cynicism squares off against hope by way of a novel, engaging premise. On first viewing I felt genuine suspense for how the story would leave Joel and Clementine's relationship--I was rooting for these kids. The storly brought forth the underlying questions about the nature of relationships--i.e. to what degree do we compromise or "settle" in order to live with ourselves and others? The mind-wipe procedure strikes me as a huge emotional cop-out, and yet how many of us would use it, if it were available? By placing the movie within a plausible setting we all can recognize, you're forced to grapple with this question. Despite the overall dramatic tone, there are also some laugh-out loud funny moments. A great movie, worth multiple viewings. Expand
  73. IliyaD.
    May 13, 2005
    10
    I feel sorrow for the people who didn't understand and sad for those who didn't like this movie. This movie is about love and all his aspects. This is a keeper.
  74. ChrisG.
    Feb 6, 2006
    10
    In a word: breathtaking. I realize that the unconventional means of storytelling employed in this film won't be everybody's cup of tea; many viewers don't want to have to think too much or feel too much when watching a movie. But this is an extraordinary film, and it deserves the fulll investment of attention and emotional engagement that it demands. Despite the arty cinematic methods used by Gondry (which will either astound you or irritate you, depending on your tastes), there is nothing highbrow or inaccessible about the story's message: love is worth experiencing, even when it's difficult or painful or imperfect. And love - and our lovers - can never be removed from our psyches, no mater how much we may sometimes wish it all could be. Beautifully acted (Jim Carrey is better than I would have ever expected him to be, and Kate Winslet equals him in every way), imaginatively directed, exquisitely written, and boldly designed and shot. This film is a challenge, but those who rise to it will be richly rewarded. Truly awesome. Expand
  75. TakN.
    Jun 14, 2007
    10
    My favorite movie of all time. not much else to say except it is amazingly insightful and touching.
  76. RobC.
    Sep 20, 2008
    1
    Boring is the main word. So much "why should I care" moments and "Oh my God when is the ending coming" times as well. Another of the thousand times when Hollywood tries to impress us with "art" instead of entertainment. Movies that are worse than this are anything made by Wes Anderson.
  77. ZeinaY
    Oct 22, 2009
    9
    An absolutely riveting love story, that Gondry and Kauffman don't make a sappy mess out of.
  78. DanielL
    Jul 30, 2009
    10
    People criticise it for being confusing, okay think you kind of missed the point, it does not make them think and they are not entertained... okay you can not help who you fall in love with and it is better to remember to have loved and lost than not at all. the film is entertaining and romantic and something different and beautiful. this film lies in my top ten of all films, Jim Carrey should have got an Oscar nomination. The film should have bagged director and technology nominations. the best of the past 10 years, difficult to say with some good ones but definately in the top 5. See it and enjoy and get taken to a side of cinema which we love and are surprised how vivid some directors and writers can be. Expand
  79. Chimp
    Oct 1, 2004
    10
    Without a doubt the best movie in theaters this year, and the best ive seen all year including old movies. if it sounds corny to you just ignore what your thinking and go see it. it is simply incredible.
  80. RyanB.
    Oct 1, 2004
    10
    Brilliant. Just watch it!
  81. AB
    Oct 10, 2004
    10
    One of the best movies I've ever seen.
  82. LockneO.
    Oct 14, 2004
    10
    Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is an excellent film that shouldn't be missed by anyone. Eternal Sunshine bends your mind and breaks your heart at the same time. Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst, and Mark Ruffalo give exceptional performances.
  83. DaveC.
    Oct 16, 2004
    9
    Probably the finest film in the last year. Totally original and (ironically) unlikely to leave your memory any time soon. Wonderful.
  84. BobbyM.
    Oct 17, 2004
    10
    Great, a masterpiece, best film of the year, maybe the best film of the decade.
  85. JoeS.
    Oct 18, 2004
    0
    This movie is one big confusing mess that is impossible to follow and to understand. Clearly one of the worst movies of all time. Don't waste your money renting or buying this one.
  86. Patrick
    Dec 1, 2004
    10
    Without a doubt, the best of the year.
  87. JedD.
    Oct 23, 2004
    9
    So far the best american film of 2004. Jim Carrey is great. Kaufman hits again. I hope this is not forgotten by the time oscars roll around.
  88. MimiJ.
    Oct 25, 2004
    10
    This movie was soo good.
  89. BelleC
    Dec 5, 2004
    10
    Wow... nearly every member of the cast has done their finest work in this film. I was touched to tears by this tender work. It reminded me of the reason we continue to start new relationships, even after heartbreak. The viewer experiences the excitment of a new relationship, as well as the heartbreaking ending and is asked, "Is it all worth it?" This film is full of melancholy and hope, and one is thankful for both. Expand
  90. JavierA
    Dec 8, 2004
    9
    Hands down, the best movie of 2004 so far. Thoroughly innovative, it challenges everything cinema has taught us. Charlie Kaufman's writing is pure genius, but the real gem here is the stunning exploration of love that takes place. A breathtaking gem, with top-notch performances from everyone involved (particularly Kate Winslet) and may achieve masterpiece status soon enough.
  91. AA
    Oct 3, 2004
    7
    Sorry to give this a 7 but i was expecting it to be really good. IT was good but i guess thats what i get for reading reviews before i watch a movie, it ruins the experience. Watch it, you will like it for sure.
  92. AlejandroD.
    Oct 3, 2004
    10
    This movie is incredible.. Words can't describe it, it's an experience you have to go through to believe it. I think this movie will please a lot, but some will hate it, or won't even understand it. This is the kind of movie that is worth seeing, even if you hate it, you'll find it worth your time. The best movie I have ever seen in my life, highly recommended if you are a person that likes to use your brain!! Expand
  93. WilliamH.
    Oct 5, 2004
    6
    I REALLY wanted to like this movie, being a fan of both Michel Gondry's music videos (for the White Stripes, Chemical Bros., and others), and also of Charlie Kaufman, esp. since "Adaptation." The visuals were stunning, the acting was good, but the story really boiled down to the kind of "chick flick" relationship-dissection movie that I usually run screaming from. I guess I expected it to be more social satire, less soul-searching. 6 points just for the cleverness of ideas involved, and the great, understated visuals. Expand
  94. JamesS.
    Oct 7, 2004
    10
    The best movie of 2004. Lives and decisions have literally been changed after watching this movie. A strange feeling of heartache and wonder lingers long after the lights come on.
  95. BitBurn
    Oct 8, 2004
    8
    Weird but entertaining! The cast was fabulous.
  96. NikeshG.
    Mar 16, 2004
    10
    Truely Genius Actor, Actress, Original Screenplay please.
  97. KyleG.
    Mar 18, 2004
    9
    After the turmoil of a break-up with his girlfriend, Clementine (Kate Winslet), Joel (Jim Carrey) discovers that she has had him erased from her memory by the professionals at Lacuna Inc. In a deep depression, Joel determines the only way to move on with his life is to have Clementine removed from his own memory. Enter the Lacuna staff (Dunst, Ruffalo, Wood, and Wilkinson) who administer a procedure that goes anything but smooth. Charlie Kaufman's fifth film is his second directed by Michel Gondry (Human Nature). From beginning to end, Enternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a story that is just begging to be told. One part Memento and one part Punch Drunk Love, it's an akward love-story that unfolds naturally before your eyes. Running a gamut of emotions, there is nothing pretentious about the way Eternal Sunshine is presented. Gondry's vision complements the premise beautifully. The colors are a joy to watch and there is a visual treat in every scene. Carrey and Winslet are flawless, and they are supported by a cast of characters who each fulfill their role perfectly. Jim Carrey shines as the somber Joel Barish who is constantly describing his life as "not that interesting." A complete 180° from the zany Jim Carrey we have come to expect. Even his roles in The Truman Show and Man on the Moon, although dramatic, gave us a taste of Carrey's slapstick-style comedy. Eternal Sunshine should truly be seen as his breakthrough dramatic moment. In the end, Eternal Sunshine becomes something bigger than itself. Kaufman's story poses questions about relationships and the hardships that come with them (not to mention the ethical implications of memory erasure). Is it really better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all? Expand
  98. AnthonyC.
    Mar 21, 2004
    0
    Wow did this movie suck. I walked in thinking it would be the cinematic experience of my life from all the great reviews I read. Guess what? IT SUCKS!!!! I felt absolutely nothing for the characters. I wanted them all to forget each other so they movie would END! Carrey, Carrey, Carrey, when are you going to learn that you cannot act at all. Go back to comedy and make us all happy. All the other performances felt forced and fake. Whoever tells you this movie is complex is a totaly dumba$$. I figured it out just by seeing the trailer and the commercials. DON'T SEE THIS AT ANY COST. Expand
  99. Triniman
    Mar 21, 2004
    8
    A lot of people will see this film expecting a gushy date film or chick flick. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is nothing of the sort. Jim Carrey provides his most vulnerable performance, serious performance to date. Kate Winslet is the Gen Xer who is both desirable and yet difficult at the same time. Both actors portray characters who are against their usual types. Winslet's character (Clementine) decides to erase her memories of the Carrey character (Joel). Upon learning this, Joel opts for the same procedure. However, while his memory is being erased, he changes his mind as he relishes the good memories he had with her. We see flashbacks that morph between one another, in settings that become surreal and dream-like. At times, it's humorous and poignant but not overly sentimental. This film falls a bit short, though, of providing a knockout impact. Still, it's unique and daring. Written by Charlie Kaufaman, screenplay writer for "Being John Malkovich" and the brilliant "Adaptation." Go see this with an open mind and patience, otherwise take your date to something more pedestrian. by Triniman. Expand
  100. BenA.
    Mar 20, 2004
    10
    This is what I've come to expect from Chlarlie Kaufman: Nothing but the best. Its strange how all of his movies so far have had the biggest names in Hollywood and yet don't draw much at the box office. Adaptation (Cage, Streep) didn't draw more than 30 mil. Confessions of a Dangerous Mind (Berrymore, Cloony, Rockwell) didn't make much either. This might be the exception. I also won't be surprised if this is the critical darling that is ignored by the oscars. We'll just have to wait and see. Expand
Metascore

Universal acclaim - based on 41 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 41
  2. Negative: 0 out of 41
  1. Not only (Kaufman's) most accessible and romantic screenplay, it's his most complete. The third act works like a charm and pulls all his themes, characters and conflicts together beautifully.
  2. Reviewed by: Glenn Kenny
    100
    A wildly imaginative, hugely entertaining tour de force that asks big questions about life and love and fate while never ceasing to fully engage the viewer.
  3. 88
    Chases so many ideas that it threatens to spin out of control. But with our multiplexes stuffed with toxic Hollywood formula, it's a gift to find a ballsy movie that thinks it can do anything, and damn near does.