Before the 95th Oscars Award Show this past Sunday night, watching the highly acclaimed movie Everything Everywhere All At Once felt like a prerequisite. Despite being released over a year ago, the film’s popularity recently surged in anticipation of the show. As I settled onto my bed with my popcorn in hand, I was unprepared for the emotional journey that awaited me. When the closing credits appeared on my screen, I became irrevocably in accord with social media’s current obsession with the film. However, I don’t believe anyone was prepared for the total Oscar domination to come. The film won seven well-deserved Academy Awards, becoming the most awarded Best Picture film since 2008, and I can undoubtedly understand why.

The film won Best Picture, Best Film Editing, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Director. The actors and actresses who starred in the movie also received recognition for their outstanding performances. Michelle Yeoh, who played the main character Evelyn, was awarded Best Actress. She made history by becoming the first Asian woman to ever receive this award. This was a huge achievement and moment of optimism. She gracefully accepted this award, calling it a “beacon of hope” during her acceptance speech. Ke Huy Quan who won Best Supporting Actor gave an emotional speech in which he called his success “the American dream.” His heartfelt words resonated with the audience, and he is now a trending topic across social media. Jamie Lee Curtis won Best Supporting Actress, winning her first ever Oscar. This movie took home some of the most significant accolades at the Oscars.

Everything Everywhere All At Once follows the story of Evelyn Quan Wang, a Chinese-American woman who is thrust into a multiverse of realities. Through an intricately written plot, she navigates different versions of herself and confronts her own daunting fears to save the world. This movie has touched the hearts of all kinds of people, showcasing that humanity is not alone in a world that can feel isolating. 

When I finished watching, however, I was left utterly confused. From the wacky hot dog fingers to the black hole of a bagel, the movie truly plays with one’s mind. Nevertheless, I felt a sense of appreciation within the movie for how one can feel so trapped inside their own mind. While at first, this film may render you confused, once you dig deeper into its underlying story, it feels as if for the first time in a long time, someone actually understands you.

The movie’s underlying themes and messages can additionally be interpreted in various ways. Selah Jain (’25) was the person who urged me to watch this movie, and her takeaway from the movie was that “you will always keep coming back to the right person if you really love them.” My perception differed; I felt that it demonstrated how trapped one can feel within their bubble and the importance of taking a step back to appreciate one’s life. When asked if this movie deserved all of its awards, it wasn’t even a question. “One hundred percent,” Jain said.  “The film deserves all of its awards and praise. A movie like this hasn’t been released ever, and it is amazing to recognize an almost entirely Asian cast and see them win awards.” This movie was certainly original, a refreshing break from the countless prequels and sequels churned out over the years. 

Everything Everywhere All At Once is a must-see for all. It transports its audience to a different reality, and there is much to uncover beneath the surface. If you find yourself sitting at home  this Friday night with nothing to do, grab some popcorn and turn on this movie. You won’t regret it.