Across the Universe

I wanted to like this, but I didn’t. It’s too corny and on the nose. With Beatles songs throughout, do the character’s names really need to be “Jude”, “Lucy”, “Prudence”, or “Rita?” The Beatles weren’t so obvious. Even Jude’s name wasn’t “Jude.” Certain segments are beautifully designed. There’s a great number in a bowling alley. But the script forces songs into the movie, not for story or plot’s sake, but to have a number. So you end up getting a bunch of guys together to sing “With a Little Help From My Friends” but then you never see the guys again. Some friends! These departures are symptomatic of a weak, directionless script, with very little point. The singing and performances are played in earnest, but they’re all trapped in an inert, overblown music video. Definitely not for Beatles fans! It’ll drive you crazy. But non-Beatles fans might appreciate a fresh take on some of the songs.