Review of Across the Universe (2007) by Andrew C — 23 Jan 2012

Sure, the film's naive "all you need is love" mentality is a bit antiquated (especially in today's cynical world*), but Julie Taymor's brilliant directing and John, Paul, George, and Ringoâ??s timeless music inject this story with new life. Jim Sturgess is revelatory as Jude, the personification of the Fab Four's youthful charm, and Evan Rachel Wood is equally good as the beautiful ingénue Lucy, who is the recipient of Jude's affections. The Vietnam â??conflictâ?? and the civil rights upheaval add appropriate drama to the proceedings, and while some people may groan at the prospect of even more commentary on this turbulent time in American history, itâ??s necessary to contextualize the Beatlesâ?? music (it would be ludicrous to set this film during any other historical period). Overall, â??Across the Universeâ?? is a fitting tribute to the Beatlesâ?? music and a lush visual spectacle that is worth witnessing on the big screen.

*By the way, fuck cynicism. We could all use a strong dose of naivety. It would make the world a better place.