---

"Across the Universe" Soundtrack: A Journey Through Beatles Classics

Album Overview.

"Across the Universe" is a 2007 musical film that weaves a narrative through 34 iconic Beatles songs. The soundtrack features performances by the film's cast, including Evan Rachel Wood and Jim Sturgess. Released on September 14, 2007, by Interscope Records, the album offers both standard and deluxe editions. The standard edition includes 16 tracks, while the deluxe edition boasts all 34 songs from the film.

• Release Date: September 14, 2007.


• Genre: Film soundtrack, pop, rock, dance, classical, jazz.


• Length: Standard edition: 52:30; Deluxe edition: 100:15 (digital), 95:14 (physical).


• Label: Interscope Records.


• Producers: T Bone Burnett, Elliot Goldenthal, Matthias Gohl.

Production and Reception.

The soundtrack was produced by T Bone Burnett, Elliot Goldenthal, and Matthias Gohl. Goldenthal, who previously collaborated with director Julie Taymor on "Titus" (1999) and "Frida" (2002), also composed the film's original score. The album received positive critical response and was nominated for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for Motion Pictures, Television or Other Visual Media at the Grammy Awards.

Critic's Reviews.

The soundtrack garnered praise for its fresh takes on classic Beatles songs. Critics highlighted the emotional depth brought by the cast's performances. The diverse musical styles, ranging from rock to jazz, were noted for adding a unique flavor to the beloved tracks.

Track Highlights.

1. "Let It Be" performed by Carol Woods and Timmy Mitchum: A soulful rendition that adds a gospel touch to the classic, enhancing a poignant scene in the film.


2. "Come Together" performed by Joe Cocker: Cocker's gritty vocals bring a new dimension to this track, underscoring a pivotal moment in the storyline.


3. "I Want to Hold Your Hand" performed by T.V. Carpio: Transformed into a slow, yearning ballad, this version offers a fresh perspective on the original upbeat tune.

Musical Styles and Themes.

The soundtrack traverses various musical genres, including pop, rock, jazz, and classical. This eclectic mix mirrors the film's exploration of 1960s counterculture, touching on themes of love, war, and social change. The reinterpretation of Beatles songs serves to contextualize the era's tumultuous atmosphere.

Film Background.

"Across the Universe" is a romantic drama directed by Julie Taymor. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s, it follows Jude (Jim Sturgess), a young man from Liverpool, who travels to the U.S. in search of his father. There, he meets Lucy (Evan Rachel Wood), and their love story unfolds amidst the social upheaval of the Vietnam War era.

Main Cast of the Movie.

Jim Sturgess as Jude.

Jim Sturgess portrays Jude, a Liverpool dockworker who journeys to America seeking his estranged father. His character's artistic nature and quest for identity drive much of the film's narrative.

Evan Rachel Wood as Lucy.

Evan Rachel Wood plays Lucy, an American teenager whose life is transformed by love and the political turmoil of the 1960s. Her evolution from a sheltered girl to an activist is central to the plot.

Joe Anderson as Max.

Joe Anderson embodies Max, Lucy's rebellious brother who becomes entangled in the anti-war movement. His dynamic with Jude adds depth to the story's exploration of friendship and loyalty.

Dana Fuchs as Sadie.

Dana Fuchs takes on the role of Sadie, a singer whose character is inspired by Janis Joplin. Her powerful performances add a raw edge to the film's musical landscape.

Martin Luther McCoy as Jo-Jo.

Martin Luther McCoy portrays Jo-Jo, a guitarist reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix. His journey reflects the struggles of African American musicians during the era.

Quotes.

"The film almost didn't happen. The heads of the studio wanted to change quite a bit. They wanted to remove anything political, anything queer and anything psychedelic."

Evan Rachel Wood

January, 21st 2025

---

A-Z Lyrics Universe

---