Across The Universe

Tom's Recommended Film of the Week

Across The Universe

A Beatles based musical of a different sort than Help! or Magical Mystery Tour, Across The Universe creates something new from some beloved songs of olde. If you are a Beatles fan, you will probably enjoy this film. If you have heard and liked Beatles songs from any era, you will probably enjoy this film. If you are a child of the 60's you will appreciate this film.

Across The Universe
was not a film that I expected so much from. I am not a big fan of musicals, but I though it would be interesting, maybe fun. Now, having viewed it, I am really impressed. You can tell that there was a great deal of love, energy, imagination and devotion invested in the production of this unique piece. From behind the scenes to in front of the camera, everyone was on the same page and putting in their best work.

Hat's off to director Julie Taymor for putting Across The Universe together in such fine operatic fashion and for filming live vocal/acting segments rather than taping the songs seperate. Taymor brought great artists together and provided them a vehilce in the form of a story created from various classic Beatles song lyrics, thereby making something entirely fresh and new from something wholely beloved by several generations.

Note as you watch that the entire cast and crew, under direction from Taymor, made an effort to differential rather than imitate. A smart move and one that pays off in a wonderful blend of creativity and homage. I especially enjoyed the Joe Cocker performance of Come Together, though I am sure others may appreciate seeing Bono as Dr. Robert, a kind of Ken Kesey character or Eddie Izzard as Mr. Kite. You can't help but love the purity brought to their roles by Jim Sturgess and Evan Rachel Wood or the emotional drive in the performances of Dana Fuchs and Martin Luther Mcoy.

Across The Universe
is both a visual and auditory experience well worth your time. Pick up a copy, open your heart and mind and enjoy.