Almost Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Everything Everywhere All at Once

This documentary film offers in-depth insight into the production of the critically acclaimed 2022 film, Everything Everywhere All at Once, directed by Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert. The directors' unique vision is brought to life on screen through conversations with the cast, including Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, Jenny Slate, and Harry Shum Jr., as well as members of the crew. The documentary begins by showcasing the early development stages of the script, highlighting its unusual premise and how it evolved over time. Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert reveal their inspiration for the story, which was influenced by their shared experiences and perspectives as Asian Americans navigating the complexities of identity, culture, and family. The directors emphasize the importance of exploring these themes within the sci-fi genre, creating a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. In-depth interviews with the cast members provide a closer look at their preparation for their respective roles. Michelle Yeoh, who plays the lead character Evelyn Wang, discusses her initial hesitation to take on the project due to concerns about not fully understanding the script. However, after meeting with the directors and experiencing their passion for the film, Yeoh became increasingly drawn to the challenging and dynamic role. Ke Huy Quan, who won widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Waymond Wang, shares his excitement about reuniting with Michelle Yeoh, with whom he previously collaborated on the 1986 film, 'The Karate Kid Part II'. Quan's on-camera interview showcases his dedication to the role, including extensive physical training and rehearsals to bring his character to life. The documentary delves deeper into the filmmaking process, highlighting the creative choices made to balance humor and pathos in the story. Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert discuss their collaboration with the lead editors, showcasing the editing process and the importance of rhythm and pacing in storytelling. The behind-the-scenes look also explores the film's technical feats, such as its use of practical and visual effects. Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert explain how they worked closely with their visual effects team to realize the film's imaginative and chaotic multiverse, showcasing how each iteration builds upon the previous one to create a cohesive, immersive experience. Throughout the documentary, various members of the crew share their involvement in the production, from costume designers to stunt coordinators. Their individual insights offer a comprehensive understanding of the time, effort, and dedication required to bring this ambitious project to life. Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert's passion for filmmaking shines through as they recount the challenges they faced during production, including last-minute script changes, logistical hurdles, and adapting to the cast's needs. However, they convey their unwavering commitment to their vision and the collaborative environment that allowed the entire cast and crew to contribute to the film's success. Ultimately, 'Almost Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Everything Everywhere All at Once' is more than a behind-the-scenes look – it is a testament to the creative power of the filmmakers involved and a tribute to the resilience and perseverance of the cast and crew. By providing an intimate and detailed exploration of the making of this groundbreaking film, this documentary offers viewers an unparalleled understanding of the artistic and technical processes that brought 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' to life. The film's themes of identity, family, love, and self-discovery are not only explored through the actors' performances but also through the behind-the-scenes stories. The documentary highlights the cast and crew's dedication to their craft, showcasing how they came together to create a film that has become an instant classic. 'Almost Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Everything Everywhere All at Once' humanizes the filmmaking process, emphasizing the creative decisions, collaborations, and challenges that bring these extraordinary stories to life on the big screen.