Everything Everywhere All At Once is a unique film that blends science fiction, comedy, and drama to explore complex themes. Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, the movie is a whirlwind journey through multiple universes, anchored by the experiences of its protagonist, Evelyn Wang. Among the film’s many symbols, the bagel stands out as particularly significant. In this article, we will explore the symbolism of the bagel, its narrative importance, and its thematic resonance within the film.
The Role of the Bagel in the Plot
Introduction of the Bagel
The bagel first appears as an intriguing, almost absurd element in the film. It is introduced by Jobu Tupaki, the antagonist and an alternate universe version of Evelyn’s daughter, Joy. Jobu Tupaki creates an “everything bagel” that contains everything in the universe, from hopes and dreams to fears and regrets.
The Everything Bagel
The bagel is not just a literal object but a metaphysical one. It represents the overwhelming chaos of infinite possibilities and the crushing weight of existential dread. Jobu Tupaki uses the bagel to illustrate her nihilistic worldview, showing how the accumulation of everything ultimately leads to nothingness.
Symbolism of the Bagel
Existential Nihilism
The bagel symbolizes existential nihilism, the belief that life is inherently meaningless. Jobu Tupaki’s creation of the bagel is an expression of her despair and her sense that nothing matters. By putting everything on the bagel, she demonstrates that when you try to encompass all of existence, it leads to a void.
The Infinite and the Void
The bagel’s circular shape with a hole in the middle represents the infinite and the void. It suggests the cyclical nature of existence, where everything comes back to nothingness. This symbol is powerful in the film, as it encapsulates Jobu Tupaki’s struggle with the infinite possibilities of the multiverse and her ultimate conclusion that it all amounts to emptiness.
Contrasting Philosophies
The bagel also serves as a contrast to other philosophical viewpoints in the film. While Jobu Tupaki sees the everything bagel as a symbol of despair, Evelyn’s journey shows a different perspective. She learns to find meaning in the chaos and to cherish the small, seemingly insignificant moments of life.
Thematic Exploration
Chaos and Order
The bagel represents the tension between chaos and order. In a multiverse where anything is possible, the bagel symbolizes the overwhelming chaos that can ensue. However, it also shows the possibility of finding order and meaning within that chaos, a theme central to Evelyn’s character development.
Family and Relationships
The bagel also symbolizes the complexities of family relationships. Jobu Tupaki’s creation of the bagel is a manifestation of her emotional turmoil and her fractured relationship with her mother. The film uses the bagel to explore the depths of familial love, conflict, and reconciliation.
The Search for Meaning
At its core, the bagel symbolizes the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. Jobu Tupaki’s despair contrasts with Evelyn’s eventual realization that meaning is not found in the grand gestures or the infinite possibilities, but in the simple, everyday moments and connections.
Narrative Impact
Driving the Plot
The bagel is a central plot device in Everything Everywhere All At Once. It drives the conflict between Jobu Tupaki and Evelyn and serves as a catalyst for Evelyn’s transformation. The bagel’s impending threat forces Evelyn to confront her own beliefs and relationships.
Character Development
Evelyn’s journey is deeply intertwined with the symbolism of the bagel. Her evolution from a weary laundromat owner to a multiverse traveler mirrors her shifting perspective on the bagel’s symbolism. Initially overwhelmed by the chaos it represents, she ultimately learns to navigate and find meaning within it.
Climax and Resolution
The bagel plays a crucial role in the film’s climax. Jobu Tupaki’s attempt to use the bagel to end her existence is thwarted by Evelyn’s newfound understanding and empathy. The resolution highlights the film’s message that love and human connection can overcome nihilism and despair.
Visual and Symbolic Representation
Visual Metaphor
The bagel is used as a powerful visual metaphor throughout the film. Its black-and-white appearance contrasts with the vibrant multiverse, emphasizing the starkness of Jobu Tupaki’s worldview. The bagel’s presence in various scenes reinforces its symbolic weight and its impact on the characters.
Symbolic Imagery
The film uses symbolic imagery to reinforce the bagel’s themes. The circular shape appears in various forms, from the bagel itself to the circular portals between universes. This repetition underscores the film’s exploration of infinity, cycles, and the search for meaning.
Cultural Significance
The choice of a bagel, a common and mundane object, adds a layer of cultural significance. It highlights the film’s blending of the extraordinary and the ordinary, showing how profound meaning can be found in everyday items and experiences.
See also: When Was Everything Everywhere All At Once Filmed?
Philosophical Implications
Nihilism vs. Absurdism
The bagel represents a clash between nihilism and absurdism. While Jobu Tupaki embodies a nihilistic viewpoint, Evelyn’s journey aligns more with absurdism, which suggests that while life may be inherently meaningless, individuals can create their own meaning through their actions and choices.
Existential Reflection
The bagel prompts existential reflection for both the characters and the audience. It challenges viewers to consider their own beliefs about meaning and existence. The film uses the bagel to explore deep philosophical questions in an accessible and engaging way.
Personal Growth
Evelyn’s personal growth is mirrored in her changing perception of the bagel. Her initial fear and confusion give way to acceptance and understanding. This transformation underscores the film’s message that personal growth often comes from facing and embracing life’s uncertainties.
Cultural and Social Context
Universal Themes
The bagel’s symbolism resonates with universal themes of identity, purpose, and human connection. Its use in the film transcends cultural boundaries, making the film’s message accessible to a wide audience.
Cultural Diversity
The film’s multicultural cast and setting add layers of meaning to the bagel’s symbolism. The bagel, a food with Eastern European origins, is integrated into a story that spans different cultures and realities, highlighting the interconnectedness of human experiences.
Impact on Viewers
The bagel’s symbolism has a profound impact on viewers, prompting them to reflect on their own lives and beliefs. Its representation of existential themes encourages audiences to find their own meaning and connections in a complex and often chaotic world.
Conclusion
The bagel in Everything Everywhere All At Once is a multifaceted symbol that plays a crucial role in the film’s narrative and thematic exploration. It represents existential nihilism, the tension between chaos and order, and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. Through its visual and symbolic representation, the bagel challenges viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and experiences. Ultimately, the bagel’s significance lies in its ability to encapsulate the film’s profound messages about life, love, and human connection.
Related topic:
How Much is Everything Everywhere All At Once?
Is Everything Everywhere All At Once A Marvel Movie?
What Rating Is Everything Everywhere All At Once?