New Cloud Atlas Clip Reveals The Film’s Narrative Structure.

By Rudie Obias | Updated

This article is more than 2 years old

With less than a month until its release, Cloud Atlas, the new film from the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer, is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated movies of the fall season. The film adaptation of David Mitchell’s novel is big and sprawling, with six separate storylines that span over 1,000 years. Just thinking about the narrative structure of Cloud Atlas could make anyone dizzy. To bring relief for hopeful viewers, Warner Bros. has released a clip from the film to help demonstrate how it all ties together. Check it out below:

Well, maybe that clip didn’t answer all your questions but it does illustrate the use of montage to drive the film’s narrative and connect the separate storylines. The lofty language used in the voiceover paints a better picture of what the trio of directors are trying to convey with Cloud Atlas. The idea of actions and consequences permeate throughout the film’s narrative, and hopefully Cloud Atlas will be more cohesive than this short clip.

Cloud Atlas premiered at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival to mixed reviews. Some critics felt it was a masterpiece for the ages, while others felt the film lacked in conviction and solidarity. From the sound of things, you at least have to respect Cloud Atlas‘ ambition.

Cloud Atlas features actors Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent, Hugo Weaving, Jim Sturgess, Doona Bae, Ben Whishaw, James D’Arcy, Xun Zhou, Keith David, David Gyasi, Susan Sarandon, and Hugh Grant. Many of them play multiple roles and take on different personas throughout the film.

Cloud Atlas opens everywhere in theaters on October 26th.