©Courtesy of A24

The recently departed are guided into their next phase of existence just as they were in life – by a bureaucratic system that’s meant to maintain societal order. The new fantasy rom-com, Eternity, offers a sharp commentary on life’s flaws that shape a person’s journey toward enlightenment.

The film’s wry commentary about people’s insecurities is in part driven by the romances between Elizabeth Olsen, Miles Teller and Callum Turne’s characters. The heart of the story lies in the trio’s personal journey of self-discovery.

Dating Amber helmer David Freyne directed Eternity. He co-penned the movie’s Black List script with Pat Cunnane.

Eternity follows two marriages that are at odds with one another in the afterlife. Upon his death, Larry wakes up as his younger self (Miles Teller). He’s paired with Afterlife Coordinator (AC) Anna (Da’Vine Joy Randolph). She not only tells him that he has to choose what kind of existence he’d like for himself, such as an unending day at the beach, for the rest of eternity. Anna also explains his situation and tries to match him with the ideal afterlife.

But Larry wants to wait for his wife Joan, whose cancer diagnosis suggests the duo will be reunited soon. When she does arrive, she also returns to her youth (Elizabeth Olsen), but there’s a slight snag to their reunion.

Joan’s first husband, Luke (Callum Turner), died during the Korean War decades earlier. He’s also been waiting to reunite with Joan. With the help of her AC Ryan (John Early), she has to decide which of her husbands she wants to spend eternity with.

Freyne and Cunnane crafted a thrilling story that depicts a wholly credible doubt over who Joan will choose in the after-life. The female protagonist takes her time considering both options, as she contemplates how both men are good options in their own ways. She also realizes that choosing either man in the after-life will undoubtedly cause pain to the other.

©Courtesy of A24

Olsen gives a relatable, heartfelt performance as Joan while she’s struggling with her indecision with some fluster. But the more the character contemplates her existence in the after-life, she becomes more resolved in her decision.

The Emmy-nominated actress’ performance is amplified by the support of her male co-stars. Turner’s outwardly teen idol looks and charm inform his personal flaws and internal fears. Meanwhile, Teller gradually builds Larry’s unassuming appeal.

The trio are all thoughtful, charming and gentle with each other to varying degrees. However, there is an underlying current of sadness amongst them that makes them continuously ponder how Joan’s ultimately decision will affect them all.

The actors emphasize the moral of the abstract lessons in Cunnane and Freyne’s story. Joan’s predicament urges her and both of her husbands from her time on Earth to balance the practical and the irrational in romance. Randolph and Early support Olsen, Teller and Turner’s wavering charm with their own flawed charisma.

Freyne took inspiration from the style of such unique auteurs as M. Night Shyamalan and Guillermo del Toro while shooting Eternity. The up-and-coming filmmaker leaned into his latest feature’s off-beat humor early in the story to help emphasize the plot’s emotional resonance. The narrative’s humor is interwoven with its dramatic aspects, which amplifies the characters’ personal views on their situation.

Freyne worked with the rom-com’s cinematographer, Ruairí O’Briento, and production designer, Zazu Myers, to emphasize the actors’ humor and magnetism. The filmmakers infused the feature with dark-tones and solid colors, which carefully frame the spaces of the story’s locations.

Eternity ultimately succeeds as both a whimsical afterlife adventure and a thoughtful meditation on the choices that define married characters. Freyne’s assured direction, as well as the sharp, empathetic script he crafted with Cunnane, elevated the movie beyond its high-concept premise.

The plot grounds its cosmic questions in intimate, deeply human emotions. Led by Olsen, Teller and Turner’s tender, complex performances, the story balances humor and melancholy with remarkable finesse.

Overall, Eternity ponders what truly matters in life. It ultimately delivers a resonant, gently profound reminder that love and fulfillment are as complicated in the hereafter as they are on Earth.

©Courtesy of A24

Overall: A-

Eternity screened at the 34th Philadelphia Film Festival last month. The fantasy rom-com played during the Centerpieces & Special Events section. The category features the most anticipated and compelling movies from around the world.

A24 will release Eternity in select theaters this Wednesday, November 26, 2025.

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Here’s the trailer of the film.