The idea that there could be distinct versions of ourselves across multiple universes is explored in the genre-bending film Everything Everywhere All At Once. It follows a seemingly ordinary woman played by Michelle Yeoh, who suddenly discovers that not only does the multiverse exist, but she's the worst possible version of herself. The idea may seem fantastical, but multiverses do spring from theoretical physics, even if scientists are nowhere near agreeing on whether they're real.
The film Everything Everywhere All at Once has enjoyed critical acclaim and awards success. Ahead of the Oscars, where it’s tipped to sweep the board, Ian Sample speaks to theoretical physicist and philosopher Sean Carroll about why we seem to be drawn to the idea of multiple worlds, and what the science says about how the multiverse might actually work. Help support our independent journalism at
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