Review of Across the Universe (2007) by Jess L — 06 Feb 2013

What to say about this film... it has been a while since I've seen a film that has truly transported me from my world into its. Across the Universe has a simple yet effective premise, one dimensional characters and a basic 60s political/social/cultural plot that can be seen in many films across several decades. Yet it stands apart as a wonderful achievement in cinema because of the soundtrack and visual design and vision of the director Julie Taymor.

The soundtrack, which is of course 99% of the movie as it is mostly sung, is a Beatles lover's dream. At times it seems a bit forced and doesn't feel quite right, but on the whole it is a satisfying way of viewing these character's journeys and relationships. For me, the artistic interpretation of these songs made it work; had they simply used the songs in original form it would have come off as lazy and uninteresting.

Coupled with the wonderful music is the equally amazing visuals used in the film. The use of varying techniques, whether to transport the audience into the character's minds after taking drugs, or the deeply impacting Vietnam sequences meshing with the protests back home, a splash of special effects and quirkiness makes this film visually enjoyable to watch.

Acting is great, nothing fantastic but I was definitely surprised by Evan Rachel Wood's voice. Without a doubt Jim Sturgess has an incredible voice and will be more widely seen in films from here on in.

The middle of this film does drag somewhat but the opening and closing thirds of the film make it well worth watching. It captures the period of the 60s beautifully and makes you want to go and listen to all of the Beatles music again. Wonderful film and great fun to watch.