Ultimate Movie Year finds the best released films from weekends past to build an all-star lineup of cinema.

"Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind"
Released March 19, 2004
Directed by Michel Gondry

I've seen hundreds, if not thousands, of movies that depict romantic relationships as cute, funny, occasionally bonkers, but whatever obstacles are encountered, almost always end with the couple living happily ever after. There are also several movies - not as many, but enough to be notable - that depict toxic relationships, and the goal and victory is for the protagonist to get out.

There are few movies I can think of that can accomplish both at the same time, and assuredly none that do it as well as 2004's "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind." The film, directed by Michel Gondry and starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet as the central couple, is a surreal, mind-bending experience depicting the ecstasy and desolation of love.

It's at times, heart wrenching, hilarious, beautiful, whimsical, and depressing. You are equally rooting for the couple to get together, and also start over again because of the emotional and broken wounds we see in both of them. It is the ultimate movie that depicts the optimism and insanity of devoting your life to another person, and all that it entails.