A Phenomenal Film that never ceases to enthrall its viewers

Rating: 9/10 (12 November 2012)

I came into "Cloud Atlas" with a very open mind, trying not to listen to what movie reviewers had been saying about the film. I'm glad I did, because every review I read was way too harsh on this film. As many of you know, "Cloud Atlas" switches between six stories in different times and places. The best way to come into this film is to accept that the filmmakers will cut between the stories quite a bit and will show you on many occasions how they are connected. Once you do this, you can enjoy the transitions and understand WHY they cut between the stories at the different points (there is either a direct object connecting them or two stories are at similar points in their story arches). While I have not read the novel, the film's screenplay (among many other things) should be nominated for an Oscar for how well it weaves together such vastly different stories into the same space. Every story is unique and enthralling in its own right but still maintains similar themes and arches that connect them together so well. This film is not for everybody as it does require you to pay attention closely for a few hours. When you follow along, you'll get it, and be glad you stuck with it. "Cloud Atlas" is satisfying from a visual, performance, and story standpoint.