EVERYTHING IS CONNECTED.
The Wachowskis hooked up with Tom Tykwer for this unwieldy adaptation of David Mitchell’s ambitious novel that connects several plot lines over six eras, from the 19th century to the distant, post-apocalyptic future. There is coherence in terms of details and overarching themes and it’s a treat to watch a cast of stars play several different characters in different eras, especially Jim Broadbent and Hugo Weaving who look as if they’re having a great time. Elaborate and engaging, but it’s disappointing that the only conclusion seems to be that actions have consequences through ages. As if we didn’t know.
2012-Germany. 172 min. Color. Widescreen. Written and directed by Tom Tykwer, The Wachowskis. Novel: David Mitchell. Music: Tom Tykwer, Reinhold Heil, Johnny Klimek. Cast: Tom Hanks (Henry Goose/Isaac Sachs/Dermot Hoggins/Zachry/Hotel Manager/Cavendish Look-a-Like Actor), Halle Berry (Native Woman/Jocasta Ayrs/Luisa Rey/Indian Party Guest/Ovid/Meronym), Jim Broadbent (Captain Molyneux/Vyvyan Ayrs/Timothy Cavendish/Korean Musician/Prescient 2), Hugo Weaving, Susan Sarandon, Hugh Grant… Ben Whishaw, James D’Arcy.
Trivia: Ian McKellen was reportedly considered for a part.