Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Kernel Score: 90% · 16,079 ratings · Rated R
Genres: Science Fiction, Drama, Romance
Released: 2004-03-19
Runtime: 108 minutes
Is Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind worth watching?
Must-watch. A breakup story told through erased memories, which is both inventive and surprisingly tender. It's funny, sad and visually playful, and Jim Carrey gives a restrained, human performance.
Watch it if you
- like romances that are a bit strange and thoughtful
- enjoy non-linear storytelling
- want a film that stays with you afterwards
Skip it if you
- want a straightforward love story
- dislike films that jump around in time
Best for: Date night, or a solo watch
Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.
Where to watch Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
Joel Barish, heartbroken that his girlfriend underwent a procedure to erase him from her memory, decides to do the same. However, as he watches his memories of her fade away, he realises that he still loves her, and may be too late to correct his mistake.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind parents' guide: ages 11+
Parents need to know that Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is an R-rated romantic drama about memory erasure following heartbreak, with mature relationship themes.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
If you liked Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- Her (2013) — 94%: Offbeat, sad and tender love story with an imaginative concept
- The Science of Sleep (2006) — 75%: Same director, with dreamlike visuals and a lovelorn hero
- Swan Song (2021) — 79%: Near-future drama about love and what gets lost
- Interstellar (2014) — 95%: Emotional sci-fi built around love and time
- Mr. Nobody (2009) — 88%: Memory, regret and what-ifs in a bold structure
- The Prestige (2006) — 95%: Clever, layered story that rewards close attention
Director
Cast
- Jim Carrey as Joel Barish
- Kate Winslet as Clementine Kruczynski
- Kirsten Dunst as Mary
- Mark Ruffalo as Stan
- Elijah Wood as Patrick
- Tom Wilkinson as Dr. Mierzwiak
- Jane Adams as Carrie
- David Cross as Rob
- Deirdre O'Connell as Hollis
- Thomas Jay Ryan as Frank
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind FAQ
Is Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind worth watching?
Must-watch. A breakup story told through erased memories, which is both inventive and surprisingly tender. It's funny, sad and visually playful, and Jim Carrey gives a restrained, human performance.
Where can I watch Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind?
In the US you can rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind OK for kids?
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is an R-rated romantic drama about memory erasure following heartbreak, with mature relationship themes.
What movies are like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind?
If you liked Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, try Her, The Science of Sleep, Swan Song and Interstellar.