David Freyne’s ‘Eternity’ Revives the Rom-Com With Heart and Wit
David Freyne’s ‘Eternity’ breathes new life into the romantic comedy, blending classic influences, sharp writing, and irresistible chemistry for a film that charms from start to finish.
It’s worth pausing to consider what truly elevates a romantic comedy, especially as many claim the genre has faded from the cinematic spotlight. While some lament the apparent decline of the sharp, breezy rom-com, David Freyne’s ‘Eternity’ stands as proof that the form is far from extinct. In an era where films are often described as moody, slow-paced, and visually striking yet emotionally distant, Freyne’s work is a refreshing reminder of the power of a well-crafted story and genuine charm. The best romantic comedies have always prioritised a compelling plot and an abundance of charisma, and ‘Eternity’ delivers both in spades, leaving audiences grinning throughout.
Classic Inspirations and Sincere Storytelling
The creative process for ‘Eternity’ began with a carefully curated moodboard. During a conversation about the film, which centres on Elizabeth Olsen’s character Joan as she faces a choice between her steadfast husband and a youthful love lost too soon, the comparison to ‘Groundhog Day’ naturally arose. Both films weave fantastical elements into their narratives, grounding them with sincerity and sparkling chemistry. The influence of John Hughes is also evident, with his knack for capturing the mythic quality of coming-of-age moments through infectious writing. Freyne and co-writer Pat Cunnane achieve a similar balance, moving seamlessly between playful absurdity and moments of genuine emotional weight.
Freyne himself acknowledged the impact of genre legends on his approach.
“Nora Ephron from that period was a huge influence,”
he shared, before highlighting two particular inspirations.
“The biggest influences were Billy Wilder films and Preston Sturges films,”
he explained.
“Those kind of old Golden Era rom coms that had so much heart and humour and weren’t afraid to go for big emotions, which I think we don’t do as often now in cinema.”
With a clear nod to the grandeur of 1940s and 1950s Hollywood, Freyne set out to capture the same emotional heights, stating,
“Those old, old Hollywood kind of rom coms were the big, big, big touchstone for me when I was making it.”
The Importance of Casting and Chemistry
As with the classics, the secret ingredient for any successful romantic comedy lies in the casting. The genre’s history is filled with unforgettable performances from the likes of Meg Ryan, Molly Ringwald, Marilyn Monroe, Henry Fonda, and Dean Martin. In ‘Eternity’, the dynamic between Elizabeth Olsen, Miles Teller, and Callum Turner is central. Turner’s portrayal of Luke, who has lingered in the afterlife for decades hoping to reunite with Joan, and Teller’s depiction of Larry, Joan’s long-term partner, create a lively interplay reminiscent of the best comedic rivalries. Olsen, meanwhile, anchors the story with emotional depth, embodying the film’s exploration of love, loyalty, and the meaning of a shared life.
Freyne recognised the significance of his cast.
“They really were dream casting,”
he admitted.
“It’s kind of who I wanted for the roles, but they don’t audition, you offer them, and I felt so fortunate that they said yes.”
Yet, he was mindful that star power alone would not suffice.
“I think for me, though, the anxiety was whether they would get on,”
he reflected. The true test was the chemistry between the actors, which quickly became apparent during rehearsals at Olsen’s home.
“Very quickly I could see them bonding and just having conversations about our lives and our loves, I could see how they were connecting with each other, and I could see that chemistry building.”
Boldness and Heart: The Final Touches
For a romantic comedy to truly shine, a certain boldness is required. Freyne brings this through both his script and his direction, crafting an afterlife that is as absurd as it is brilliant. The cast, too, embraced this spirit.
“They were so game to they had no embarrassment in going for the biggest loss. They had no ego in anything in the film. And they really just put their hearts and souls into it,”
he said. Freyne was quick to credit his actors for elevating the material.
“I was really proud of the script. I think it was really great. But they made it so much more funny and so much more moving than I thought it could be,”
he remarked, a sentiment any director would be proud to share after witnessing their vision come to life with such warmth and laughter.