Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind By Michael Gondry

The importance of memories Memories are the only thing in life that are guaranteed to last a lifetime. Some of the greatest significant possessions in life are not perceptible. Not only are memories significant, in the end they are all we really have. In Michael Gondry’s Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, fragmented elements convey the importance of memories. The film depicts that one’s memories formulate who he or she is as a person. Gondry incorporates memories in the film through the symbolism of Clementine’s hair colour , the camera techniques, and the importance of Lacuna Inc. Memories are such an integral part of our lives and make us who we are. Throughout the film, Clementine’s various hair colours are an important element of memories. This important
element is shown through Joel’s memories of his relationship with Clementine.
We see that Joel’s memories of his relationship with Clementine are very descriptive. Although each memory between the couple seems to be dysfunctional at times, it is evident that these memories are meaningful. Joel never fails to remember the colour of Clementine’s hair throughout the memories as well. Clementine’s hair can be seen as a visual representation of her relationship with Joel. Even though Clementine’s hair was always an unusual colour, Joel never questioned that aspect of her until meeting again on the train after the erasing procedure, “It might be the hair. What might? It changes a lot, the colour. That’s why you might not recognize me. It’s called blue ruin” (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind). Prior to this scene, Joel is displayed as a depressed, empty character; however this could be due to the procedure. If Joel did not follow through with the procedure, he could
have avoided being “in a funk” as he claims to be. He feels empty due to no longer having specific memories with Clementine; he is just unaware of it. Furthermore, Clementine’s hair can also be a visual representation of her outgoing self. Although Clementine is more on the social side, Joel is more the shy and quiet type. The two individuals are complete opposites and even though this caused conflict, Joel loved Clementine’s wild behavior. However, when meeting again for the first time on the train, Joel seems to be hesitant toward Clementine which can also be due to the procedure. The symbolism of Clementine’s hair relates back to the importance of memories. Another element that signifies the importance of memories is the camera techniques. Throughout the film many camera techniques are used to show how valuable Joel’s memories with Clementine are to him. It is established later on into the procedure that is it against Joel’s will. Despite his memories with Clementine not always being the best they could be, Joel is in desperate need of trying to retain them. Even though the procedure is out of his hands at this point, he tries to hide Clementine away within his childhood memories.