Cult hit is a GO

Rating: 8/10 (15 June 2013)

I know how they spent $102M on this...it went to the stars--without whom nobody would be watching the movie.
What I don't know I how they managed to finance it. A summer blockbuster, this ain't.
But, it hits all the high points for a cult hit. Serious? Yes, they were aiming 180 degrees from irony. Outre? Yes, I can't remember *any* time I saw a gay relationship on screen dealt with so convincingly. Open to interpretation? Goodness yes, this is a very unusual film.
It is well-written, well-directed, and well-acted. Everyone involved did exactly what they intended to do.
As a viewer, my and anyone's first reaction is that this isn't what they expected. As a reviewer--and here's the crucial point to a cult film-- I'm not sure it rewards multiple viewings, I really don't think there's that much there.
However, I look forward to having 'Cloud Atlas' continue to be seen and discussed for some time. Bottom line: if it's the only movie in the Redbox that looks like it's worth watching--against 20 horror movies, 5 stale action movies you've never heard of, and 5 new releases you've already seen...rent this thing without worry. (Last thing I rented that way was 'Anna Karenina', the worst movie of the year; before that was 'Killing Them Softly', second worst. Your $1 isn't wasted on 'Cloud Atlas')