Cloud Atlas.

I had originally decided that I wasn't going to review films I had already seen, but that I would watch and review movies specifically that were new to me despite whenever they came out.  Cloud Atlas changed my mind on that.  I don't intend to do it often, however I feel strongly about this film.

I have viewed Cloud Atlas no less than 20 times and with every viewing I gained a deeper understanding of the film and the plot.  Cloud Atlas was directed by the Wachowskis (of The Matrix fame) and Tom Tykwer.  It is an EPIC, three-hour film that consists of five or six different time periods throughout a tale of the power of love and the resonance of actions.  Starring Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugo Weaving, Jim Sturgess, Jim Broadbent, Susan Sarandon to name a few, we get every cent of our monies' worth from the performances set for by these players, who often play multiple roles.

Cloud Atlas is neither for the faint of heart, nor the average movie-goer.  If you're looking for something light, but well-made and thrilling...look elsewhere.  Cloud Atlas is long, serious, intense, thought-provoking and has deep meanings.  This movie was taken from the novel of the same name, written by David Mitchell, and he worked on the film to ensure it's adherence to his work.  I am yet to read the book, but I'd bet money that his diligence has paid off.

Though I will not delve into each individual plot (because frankly, I haven't the patience to explain it in this format) I will describe briefly what you are in for.  As mentioned earlier, there are multiple plot lines that tie together to make this movie.  The movie does cut from one timeline to another in order to produce value for the undertones of the plot, however this is not chronological, so watching it can be tricky.  Chronologically the plots take place in 1849, 1936, 1973, 2012, 2144 and 2311 (and then a little after 2311...say 2333 😉).  Without going into too many details, the prevalent themes of the movie are love, kindness and how the actions of a person will ripple across all of time and space.  As I said, this is a very deep plot that hits hard to make these themes work.  I would love to describe each of the plots to you, but honestly, that is the whole fun of watching this film.  It's like putting together a puzzle while the pieces are laid out for you one at a time.

Cloud Atlas has an amazing cast that pulls no punches, an immense production value, an intricate plot and one of the most mesmerizing soundtracks I've ever heard.  If you have the wherewithal and means to watch this movie, do it now.  It is a thrilling ride that I have taken many times, and undoubtedly will again.  I am always will to discuss this (as well as any other) film, and would love to do so at length.  Please leave comments and if you have any questions I would love to answer them!

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