Across the Universe - A Musical for the Beatles

On Wednesday, September 5th, I had the opportunity to go to a movie premier in New York City. The film that I had viewed was Across the Universe. It was a witty love story that is filmed through the turbulent times of the 1960's of the post-war protests and the rights of free speech. Across the Universe is also a musical film that uses a soundtrack that is entirely made of up of Beatles songs. You never blink an eye throughout the movie and music is energetic and enthusiastic to the characters in this wonderful film.

You couldn't have put together a better group of cast members. From the acting to the energetic singing, the cast were above stellar and enthralled the viewer in the film. At times, it seemed as though I was actually there with the actors in the film. The love story between Jude (Jim Sturgess) and Lucy (Evan Rachel Wood) was captivating and emotional. The difficulties that the director (Julie Taymor) envisioned in the sixties created a desperation love story that has a happy ending. The choreography was amazing and strange at times. However, I think that it absolutely represented the times of hippies, drugs, and the power of beliefs in culture.

The musical film embodies the times of protest and that's just what Lucy gets enthralled in. Lucy is against the war after the lose of her boyfriend early on in the film and the drafting of her brother Max, who was played by Joe Anderson. Lucy and Jude end up getting separated after Jude storms the main headquarters of the hippie protestors and gets thrown into prison. He is shipped out back to his homeland due to the lack of a green card, but makes his way back for the love of Lucy. Jude sings Lucy back into his heart and nothing could stop the love the two shared. Captivating, exhilarating, absolutely fantastic. None of these words correctly describe the type of love that is shared in Across the Universe.

All in all, this film was all around an A-rated film. It is a must see, even if you aren't into musical films at all. The music will leave you humming Beatles songs for days after; I know I have been since. Other actresses to watch are Dana Fuchs and T.V. Carpio, both of which have incredible vocals and acting skills. The film is a must see and should prove to be motion-picture of the year.