Across the Universe - 9 stars out of 10

Across the Universe - 9 stars out of 10

With the amazing music of The Beatles, well-developed characters, and an amazing plot to weave these two things together, "Across the Universe" continues to be one of the most creative films of our generation.  It is truly a snapshot (or several snapshots) that preserves the tribulation of 1960's America.  Julie Taymor has fantastic vision for this story and has really created something special.  Although you'd expect the music to be the foundation of this film, the entire thing actually hinges on its characters.  Not only do these characters add significance to the music of the film, but they bring new meanings to many of the songs (in a completely sensical way).  If the characters were not properly written in the script and developed by the actors, we would be left with a bunch of Beatles songs... that aren't performed by the Beatles.  I can understand how someone might take issue with the individual arrangements of some of these songs, but when woven into context they all make perfect sense.  Personally, I found many of the arrangements to be rather ingenius.  I especially love the moment when Helter Skelter is mashed together with Across the Universe and the sad background music slowly overtakes the hectic music.  There are a few moments where it seems like the writers are trying to squeeze in as many Beatles songs as possible (particularly during the tripped up, psychedelic Mr. Kite section in the middle that does not add a single thing to the plot or character development).  Regardless, this is everything that "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" aspired to be.  Jim Sturgess brings so much incredible raw emotion to Jude, and Evan Rachel Wood is great as that all-American girl, Lucy.  Both of these characters make a great journey from start to finish, particularly Lucy who transforms from innocent child to strong-willed anti-war activist.  In addition to amazing leading roles, the acting talents of Martin Luther McCoy (whose voice is plain incredible), Dana Fuchs, and Joe Anderson further bring this great story to life.  The choregraphy is to die for (particularly in "She's So Heavy" which is in my top 5 scenes of all time), the artistic vision really sets the doped up 1960's atmosphere, and the music creates 133 minutes of heaven for your ears.  This movie really is THAT good!