Comment on Just Watched Cloud Atlas (first time)
dr_scientist@lemmy.world 6 months ago
I confess, I had no idea what the film was about when I saw it in the theatre, but something about it compelled me to watch it again. And my controversial take is that the film’s story is really quite clear. Even though, again, I no idea what it was about when I first saw it.
It’s about the effects of art. The stories are in no way disconnected, but all connected by a story, a work, a piece of music, etc. And each one carries forward, often in ways the author(s), inpirations, etc. had no way of understanding.
I’m a writer of very little renown, but I use the film to keep going. Because even if you’re not an artist, your life will have an effect in way you can’t know. And I love that idea.
Also, it was a crime that this film did not get any nominations for editing. It is, purely from a technical point of view, a masterclass. The beats of six separate stories cut together according to their lows and highs, and cutting away when you really want to know what’s happening. If you don’t like the film, that’s entirely reasonable. But how it was put together is something to behold.
maegul@lemmy.ml 6 months ago
Excellent points!!
I hadn’t actually framed it as art being the connection across time … but it’s definitely there! Though I think it’s more than heart but sort of “soulful or heartful work” … thinking of Somni’s sermon here … which is really just a broader category that includes art IMO.
And yea, with the editing, I agree. Nolan’s films are often put up there as editing show cases (The Prestige especially IMO) and I was surprised to get a Nolan vibe from Cloud Atlas’s approach to editing and to have never heard of it in that regard!