In the film Eternity, Miles Teller stars in a compelling love triangle that unfolds beyond the boundaries of life itself. The story centers on Larry (Teller), a husband who spent 65 years devoted to his wife Joan (Elizabeth Olsen). After an untimely death caused by choking on a pretzel, Larry finds himself reborn in a younger version of his body in the afterlife, eager to reconnect with Joan. However, Joan’s first husband, Luke (Callum Turner), a war hero who died long ago, is also waiting for her. The tension between these two men sets the stage for a heartfelt and humorous romantic conflict, bringing the concept of a “Miles Teller love triangle” vividly to life.
Reimagining the Afterlife as a Mundane but Meaningful Space
Unlike typical portrayals of the afterlife filled with celestial gates or bizarre otherworldly environments, Eternity presents an afterlife that is surprisingly ordinary. The setting resembles a mix between a train station and a sterile doctor’s waiting room, with white corridors leading to unremarkable hotel rooms and a large convention center. This space is not meant for permanence but rather serves as the place where individuals must make one crucial decision: where they will spend eternity. Larry’s afterlife counselor, Anna (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), explains that once a choice is made—ranging from idyllic mountains and beaches to eccentric locales such as 1930s Germany free of its historical horrors or even a Capitalist World—the decision is final.
Though many of these afterlife options serve as comedic background elements, they highlight the weight of choosing an eternity, setting the stage for Larry and Luke’s personal rivalry. Their interaction contrasts two very different approaches to love and life, one impatient and crass, the other suave and chivalrous.
Contrasting Approaches to Romance in the Afterlife
The film smartly balances romantic idealism with everyday realities through its central trio. Luke embodies the classic, polished lover, offering moments of calm and grace. Larry, meanwhile, is a restless and cranky figure trapped in a youthful body, excitedly demonstrating small joys like being able to squat without pain. Elizabeth Olsen delivers a radiant performance as Joan, caught in the emotional crossfire between two vastly different men. The dynamic between Callum Turner and Miles Teller provides both sweeping romantic moments and physical comedy, especially during their humorous battles for Joan’s affection. Teller, in particular, endures much of the film’s comedic blows as Larry, including jokes about the war that claimed Luke’s life.
Supporting Players Inject Humor and Depth into the Story
Da’Vine Joy Randolph shines as Anna, Larry’s afterlife counselor who has grown jaded after guiding countless souls. Her renewed passion for Larry and Joan’s unusual situation adds warmth and humor. John Early plays Ryan, Luke’s afterlife counselor, who is equally determined to see his client reunited with Joan. The film cleverly uses their rivalry to convey petty office politics within the afterlife framework.
Both Randolph and Early excel in their roles, delivering sharp wit and memorable comedic moments. Their beige uniforms contrast humorously with the afterlife’s vibrant and postcard-like color palette—rich reds, blues, and golds—that paint this world as a place far more vivid than real life. This striking visual style enhances scenes of emotional tension, emphasizing Joan’s emotional struggle as much as the humor.
A Clever Blend of Parody and Genuine Emotion
Eternity playfully parodies rom-com clichés without alienating fans of the genre. The romantic tension between Larry and Luke, each representative of different types of love, drives the film’s energy and conflict. Against the backdrop of the afterlife, jokes take on a provocative edge, enriching the experience beyond typical romantic comedy fare. The film combines silly, sexy, and touching moments to create a story that feels both fresh and heartfelt.
The clever screenplay by David Freyne and Patrick Cunnane offers a mixture of classic romantic ideals and sobering truths. This blend, combined with the performances of Miles Teller, Elizabeth Olsen, and Callum Turner, makes Eternity a standout title among recent romantic dramas, particularly those exploring unconventional love stories.
Release and Reception at the Toronto International Film Festival
Eternity premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival to positive reviews for its originality and the strong chemistry among its leads. The film’s November 26 theatrical release is anticipated to attract audiences who enjoy thought-provoking romantic comedies with a unique narrative twist. With its inventive use of the afterlife setting and a deeply human story about love’s endurance, the film promises to leave viewers reflecting on the choices that define eternity.
