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Across the Universe [2007]


RRP: £19.99
Our Price: £1.78 (subject to change)

Editorial
Amazon.co.uk Review

Something a little different to the norm, Across The Universe is, in its simplest form, a collection of Beatles songs that have been strung together into a musical. But what a musical, and ultimately, what a fascinating film too.

Across The Universe follows Jude, played by Jim Sturgess, who travels from Britain to America in the 1960s, and eventually meets Lucy (Evan Rachel Wood). The film then picks up the story of their romance, with the likes of Vietnam war protests sitting in the background, along with a strong-yet-unknown supporting cast who more than hold their own.

Across The Universe progresses its narrative through a mix of Beatles numbers, and it’s a method that sometimes works exceptionally well, and at other times feels a little bit shoehorned. Nonetheless, more of it succeeds than fails, and there’s no denying the quality of the musical work, even though it’s not the Fab Four whose vocal talents are used.

Sometimes a bit uneven, Across The Universe is nonetheless a brave and bold screen musical, with a striking visual style. Director Julie Taymor--who previously directed the musical of The Lion King on Broadway--has fashioned a gleefully unusual movie, that’s a bit risky, sometimes a bit stretched, but very, very watchable. One of the most interesting little gems of 2007. --Jon Foster


very poor
Review date: 2008-08-17 Rating: 2 out of 10

I watched about 20 minutes of this film and then decided to go to my kitchen and chaw out my eyes with a rusty fork which proved a lot more entertaining than the movie!!

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Reviews


All You Need Is ...Another DVD Cover
Review date: 2008-08-11 Rating: 10 out of 10

I was initially put off by the "Mills and Boon" style dvd front cover and the potentially naff idea of creating a romantic narrative through press-ganging songs into use when they have such significance in their own right. But the film reveals successive delights. The director is truly inspired and her film is terrific visually, emotionally and musically.

Beautiful musical, a work of art
Review date: 2008-08-06 Rating: 10 out of 10

This is the best film I have seen for a long time. All the Beatles songs are covers, but really good ones (except I Wanna Hold Your Hand), and the actors are believable and great singers, especially Jim Sturgess as Jude!

And the art direction? Wow, just...WOW. Beautiful, trippy imagery, especially nearing the end of the film and the scene right after For the Benefit of Mr Kite. The symbolism is done brilliantly here!

I can't think of any flaws for this movie except that, well, not everyone is gonna like it. Also some scenes might confuse people who are not very open-minded; for example almost 2 years passes in the film but it's shown very subtley so people might think only a few months have passed or something.

But if you really enjoy musicals, arty films or just the Beatles in general, you MIGHT enjoy this little masterpiece. A shame it doesn't get the recognition it deserves...

A Masterpiece
Review date: 2008-07-25 Rating: 10 out of 10

Me and my girlfriend watched this film not long ago, and to be honest I wasn't keen because I'm not a fan of the beatles! However after watching this film I wasn't swayed into being a fan but I very quickly agreed with my girlfriend buying the soundtrack with a amazon voucher. Purely because the DVD wasn't out at the time. I'll be honest I still don't owe this film but I will make a purchase straight after writing this review. This is one of the few films which would be well worth a £19.99 price label the story and songs work incredibly well its almost scary! This film is nothing short of a Masterpiece and deserves to be sat on everybodies DVD shelf!

Hate the Beatles but Loved this Film
Review date: 2008-07-10 Rating: 10 out of 10

I hold my hand up to say that I am a Stone's girl, and have never rated the Beatles. This film has challenged my perceptions, but perhaps it's because the 'fab four' don't sing in this one that makes me like it so much? Anyhow, even if you aren't fond of their music, you should give this a whirl, as it is an enchanting tale, not hollywood romcom fodder, and guaranteed to make you smile, cry, laugh and cry again all for the wrong reasons.

Product Details/Specifications


Actor(s):
Salma Hayek
Bono
Jim Sturgess
Evan Rachel Wood
Eddie Izzard

Creators:
Evan Rachel Wood (Primary Contributor)
Bono (Primary Contributor)

Director(s):

Recording label: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
EAN: 5035822264533
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 2
Format: PAL,
Release date: 2008-02-11
Audience rating: Suitable for 12 years and over
Region code: 2
Running time: 129 minutes
Theatrical release date: 2007
Language: English (Original Language)

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