Photo courtesy of Revolution Studios
Observer film critic Jesseka Kadylak said “Across
the Universe” paled in comparison to Baz Luhrmann’s
“Moulin Rouge!”

By JESSEKA KADYLAK
Observer Staff
Oct. 2, 2007

Julie Taymor had great intentions when making “Across the Universe,” but she was a bit naïve to think that Beatles lyrics could carry the musical’s plot. The movie tells the story of love, peace and war in the ’60s through the Beatles’ music made popular during that time.

Without giving it all away, “Across the Universe” begins with Jude (Jim Sturgess), who leaves Liverpool to travel to Princeton, N.J., in search of his father. There he finds and befriends Max (Joe Anderson), a soon-to-be dropout, who invites Jude home for Thanksgiving dinner. Jude meets his new friend’s little sister, Lucy (Evan Rachel Wood), whose boyfriend is off at war. They all end up in New York City for a bit of self-exploration and drug-experimentation, all the while trying to come to terms with love and the Vietnam War.

With such a thin plot, it’s as if Taymor mapped out what songs and lyrics she wanted to use and then created a story to fill in the gaps.

The movie’s trailer gave the impression that “Across the Universe” would be as aesthetically appealing as Baz Luhrmann’s “Moulin Rouge!”, and it was at times. The psychedelic scenes were larger than life, but, overall, “Across the Universe” falls short of the Luhrmann film, both visually and musically.

It was a mistake to use actors who are mediocre singers, but it was an even greater mistake to have a cameo by someone who is capable of out-shining the entire cast. During the “I am the Walrus” scene, Bono steals the screen, leaving some to wonder why Taymor didn’t choose more mainstream musicians for the lead characters.

Though notable flaws exist in “Across the Universe,” one must give it up to Taymor for sticking to her vision.

You be the judge: “Across the Universe” is now playing at AMC Loews Georgetown 14 and Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.