Still entranced one month after viewing

Rating: 10/10 (20 December 2012)

This is one the greatest films ever made.
Obviously, this movie is not for everyone. By this point in time, word is out that this movie is incredibly complex, difficult to absorb, and unlike anything you've ever seen. This is a large part of the reason the film "flopped" and is considered to be a waste by many (meanwhile Michael Bay's 'Transformers' franchise continues to gross in the billions). From a film-student critical analysis, the movie fails because of it's refusal to adhere to many of the standard movie tricks that keep the viewer oriented...or even interested. The movie has no discernible rising action, the movie has no climax, and the movie certainly is void of any traditional resolution or conclusion.
The reason I feel that this movie is such a triumph is the same reason I feel I lead a fulfilling life. I strive to live in the moment...to view my journey in life as exactly that: a journey. Life is about experiencing, not arriving at a destination. Sure, Cloud Atlas's six stories very cleverly interweave similar events ands themes throughout; a reason why repeat viewings are not only advisable but absolutely necessary. There is also the fascinating acting and makeup from a set of actors reprising similar characters in each of the six stories. This feat alone is awe- inspiring as to how perfectly executed this was. MY point is that these stories are told with such mastery that the movie succeeds so completely if viewed from the perspective that it isn't necessarily going to "arrive" anywhere. It doesn't have to. I found myself hoping that the movie would never end, that the stories would just continue being told and experiencing all these beautiful moments...as that is where the most true joy of life itself comes from: experiencing this moment.
There is so much to be said thematically about these stories and the artful way in which they are told and then retold: human kind's triumph of it's kindness over greed, karma, the desire to be free, the tragedy of bondage, the inevitable progression of technology and it's consequences, the existence of deities, the urge to survive, and most of all, love. I am writing this having seen the movie only once. After a second viewing I suspect I will take notice of even more clever connections between the stories and characters, and the same for my third viewing and so on.
Anyone who dismissed this film as "overly-complicated", "confusing", or "disorganized" has simply not yet arrived at the realization that life isn't about some grand finale. Learn to be present, then you will see the genius of Cloud Atlas, and hopefully, life.