Dec 11, 2012

Cloud Atlas [2012]


Cloud Atlas is a 2012 production, based on a David Mitchell novel and directed by two sets of directors: some parts were mastered by the Wachowski brothers, and others were done by Tom Tykwer. It tackles different themes like love, betrayal and hope, across thousands of years and including characters of all sizes and appearances.

One of the most discussed aspects of this film is the level of complexity of the script: it is, indeed, a bit difficult to explain each story and the connection between them, but one thing I have to mention is the fact that it is not that hard to understand. I have read many posts saying some scenes don't make sense or that they found it difficult to grasp the links between the plots, but I wasn't in the same situation: for me it was pretty clear and, moreover, I was engaged and interested in each storyline and the sequences of scenes. Even the almost 3 hours passed by quickly, with the exception of some small parts.

I loved the idea of illustrating a specific theme or feeling across different time periods, showing that it is similar in so many ways, no matter the current status. Love, hope, survival, betrayal and instinct, all are feelings experienced in any situation, in any part of the world, and in the end, Cloud Atlas is a great way of showcasing humanity in all its forms. My favorite storylines involve the 2141 Neo Seoul time, and the music composer one, with the lovely Ben Whishaw, who was criminally underused.

From a filmmaking point of view, it looked amazing- the action and future scenes looked intriguing and interesting, shot in a dynamic way, while the past or present ones were done in a more simpler, subtle way, but not lacking beauty. I particularly liked the score, and I thought the sets and costumes from the future looked very good.

As for the acting, there's not too much to say. All did their job well, some even exceeding, like Jim Sturgess, Jim Broadbent or Hugo Weaving, but no one stood out from the cast. I definitely think Tom Hanks and Halle Berry were overused, and I wished Hugh Grant and Ben Whishaw were more present, but overall it was well acted.

I strongly believe that Cloud Atlas is an underestimated movie by most and I don't know why-usually, the complex and star-studded films get rave reviews, but this one is different. Maybe it's the sci-fi. Or because it's directed by the Wachowskis. Or maybe people just don't like to bother with complex storylines. Who knows? I just wish more people would love it. I definitely do, and I highly recommend it. (Expect even a spot in my best of 2012 list)

16 comments:

  1. Good review Diana. It’s ambitions aren't as smart or profound as they’d like to think they are, but the film I still something that’s worth watching and being very, very entertained by. If only it had a chance to make all of it’s money back.

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    1. Yeah, I didn't think about that, all that money! Hopefully it will, it still has some awards buzz!

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  2. Fantastic review! I must say this, along with Life of Pi, are still the last two movies of Oscar race I have no interest in.

    I prefer small films or when they are big and expensive, at least they should have really gripping, timeless story like Les Miserables and this one just strikes me like style over substance type of film.

    I'll definitely see this one, but I'll wait for DVD, who knows, maybe I'll end up liking it.

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    1. It really isn't style over substance, I think you should check it out. I thought the same before seeing it, but I was wrong! Give it a shot!

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  3. Nice, glad you dug this one. I kind of fall right in the middle, very similar to how I felt about Anna Karenina. Loved the technical aspects of Cloud Atlas, and all of the performances, but it just didn't stick with me. By no means bad, but definitely didn't floor me. Oh well!

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    1. I know what you mean by Not Sticking....I had this problem this year for a lot of movies, some that were supposed to be amazing!

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    2. That really is one of the most important factors for me loving a movie: staying power. I like a lot of movies as I'm walking out of the theater, but if I'm not thinking about it a few days later, then I seriously have to reconsider its worth.

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  4. Great review! This will be high on my best of 2012 list. I enjoyed all of the storylines, and I love the score so much. Each member of the cast had enough screen time to suit me, except I wanted more of Hanks as the author. :) I wouldn't mind a director's cut of this, actually.

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    1. Thanks! Hanks as the author was pretty funny and unexpected!

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  5. I'm really happy you enjoyed this. I'm firmly on the really enjoyed side. I can understand where people don't care for it, but I believe it should be applauded for what it tried.

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    1. Glad to see we share an opinion, I hope more people will see it!

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    2. I really thought it had one of more important messages to share. Even if it came together kind of bluntly in the end.

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  6. While I found the trailer intriguing I am afraid that this might be too much for my addled mind to get around in the cinema ;)

    Here here on the Ben Whishaw sentiment too …

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    1. :) But do see it, it's worth it. Oh, and Ben Whishaw *swoon* (ps.I heard he is gay)

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  7. Have seen it recently I was quite disappointed by it. It is an amazing piece of movie making, but some of the stories were not strong enough in my opinion to be really enjoyable.

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    1. Hmm...I can see why you say some stories were not enjoyable, but all had meaning or a lesson to be learned

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