In Review: Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

Synopsis: In Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022) Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh) is suddenly thrust into a “multi-verse”. There, she makes some life-altering discoveries, that involve her daughter, Joy (Stephanie Hsu) and the manifestation of negative emotions . . .

Story

What we get is a truly original story. Whilst some aspects were like The Matrix (1999), it wasn’t a carbon copy; in fact, it differed hugely. Consequently, there’s a distinct narrative voice, as well as a depth that emerges throughout this incredible tale. What’s great to see is the quality of writing on offer. The fantastical elements are used to explore the characters’ stories, and that’s always paramount. It’s a refreshing alternative to the mainstream films that have come to dominate. There’s a genuine emotional punch to this film, and it certainly makes you think. Everything Everywhere All at Once is a story about our life decisions and their impact.

Acting

Michelle Yeoh gives a superb performance as Evelyn Wang. It’s clear that Yeoh knows just how to draw emotions from viewers, which she does superbly. Stephanie Hsu deserves massive credit too. Her dual role in the film shows us just how talented she really is. The scenes with the two of them bonding are fine examples of how acting can capture the fragile beauty of human connections.

A few months ago we reported that Ke Huy Quan of Indiana Jones Fame is to Return to Cinema. He played “Short Round” in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984). This film showed that he’s a serious actor and that he’s no one-hit-wonder child actor from back in the day. He showed real screen presence and skill in this role. Also, Jamie Lee Curtis reminds us why she’s such a great character.

CGI & Action

This aspect of the film is one of its defining strengths. Things are so well thought out, and it shows. There’s a “home-made” feeling to the stunts and visual effects, and it keeps the focus on emotional significance. But the fact that’s a conscious decision is crucial. The result is that we see the surreal onscreen appear as exactly that. If ever a film proved that consideration of special effects is really important, it’s Everything Everywhere All at Once. What we see is more like an innovative stage production than a cinematic film. It’s the use of simple techniques that are so impressive in this film. They somehow compliment the complexity of the story’s themes.

Overall

Everything Everywhere All at Once is a rare example of a film truly being the sum of its parts. The plot is helped by being structured well. This helps the story maintain its shape, and also contributes to the brilliance of the characters journeys. But this is further made possible by some great acting. Everything else would fall down without this. Something else that works perfectly in this film is the humour. Without the funny scenes, things would appear a little too serious, considering the intense emotions being explored. There are some extremely funny things, and one scene in particular. Everything Everywhere All at Once is a superb, and refreshing movie.