One of the most striking and unforgettable images in Everything Everywhere All at Once is the “Everything Bagel.” While absurd on the surface, the bagel carries profound symbolic weight. It encapsulates the film’s central Review Everything Everywhere All At Once themes of nihilism, despair, choice, and the search for meaning in a chaotic universe. Understanding its symbolism reveals how the filmmakers use humor and surrealism to explore deep philosophical questions.
The Bagel as a Symbol of Nihilism
Joy, in her alternate form as Jobu Tupaki, creates the bagel as a manifestation of her despair. By placing everything into it—every thought, every experience, every possibility—the bagel becomes a black hole of nothingness. It represents nihilism: the belief that when everything exists, nothing has value. For Joy, the bagel is both a destructive force and a mirror of her internal emptiness.
The Infinite Possibilities of Life
The bagel’s circular shape reflects the overwhelming nature of infinite possibilities. Each choice creates a new reality, and the more one becomes aware of these endless paths, the more paralyzing it can feel. The bagel embodies the anxiety of “what ifs,” illustrating how the weight of boundless potential can crush one’s sense of identity and purpose.
A Contrast to the Circle of Love
The bagel’s dark void is contrasted by Waymond’s philosophy of kindness and Evelyn’s eventual realization of love’s power. While the bagel symbolizes emptiness and despair, circles also reappear in the film as positive symbols—moments of connection, laughter, and compassion. This contrast shows that the same symbol can represent destruction or unity depending on perspective.
Humor as a Gateway to Depth
By choosing a bagel—an ordinary, even comical food item—the filmmakers disarm the audience. What could have been an abstract philosophical concept becomes visually simple and memorable. This blend of absurd humor and deep meaning reflects the film’s ability to discuss existential questions in a way that feels accessible and human.
The Bagel as a Turning Point
Ultimately, the bagel serves as the emotional and philosophical turning point of the film. It forces Evelyn to confront despair, not by denying its existence but by choosing love and compassion in spite of it. The bagel shows that while nothing may matter on a cosmic scale, everything can matter on a personal one.
FAQ
What does the Everything Bagel represent in the film?
It symbolizes nihilism, despair, and the overwhelming weight of infinite possibilities, reflecting Joy’s struggle with meaning.
Why did the filmmakers choose a bagel for this symbol?
The bagel’s circular shape mirrors infinity, while its everyday familiarity adds humor, making abstract ideas more approachable.
How does the bagel connect to the film’s overall message?
It contrasts despair with love and compassion, showing that even in a meaningless universe, human connection creates purpose.
