Episode 93: Book V. Film (Cloud Atlas)

Picture
After both Josh and Dietrich were blown away by the brilliant novel by David Mitchell, they were both excited and nervous about the monumental task of adapting Cloud Atlas for the silver screen.  And while the adaptation is not without its stumbling blocks, both came away generally impressed with what may be the most ambitious film adaptation in decades. The pair discuss the complexities in weaving six separate storylines, the decision to use actors to play multiple roles, and the struggle in presenting some of the more unusual aspects of this incredible book. In addition, Dietrich reminisces about the brilliant exception that proves the rule about Star Wars novels, and Josh continues his journey to the finale of the Robert Jordan series. You can send questions and comments to questions@thelibrarypolice.com.

To download this episode, right click here and select "Save As"

What We've Been Reading

0:00 to 17:21

It's a light week for the pair, as Josh discusses the fourth book in the Wheel Of Time series, as well as talking about meeting one of the giants of the noir mystery world.  Dietrich has a pair of repeats on his hands with a staggering short story collection by Neil Gaiman, and a Star Wars story that breaks the rule about being as terrible as... well, as terrible as a Star Wars novel.

The Adaptation of Cloud Atlas

17:21 to 1:01:10

How do you combine stories about an 18th century slave ship, a conspiracy involving a nuclear reactor, a Bradbury-level dystopian future, nursing homes, cannibals, and arrogant composers? David Mitchell showed how to do it on the page with his amazing Cloud Atlas, and the creators of The Matrix decided to tackle it in film. The pair look at the ambitious adaptation, and discuss what worked, what didn't, and how it all wove together, looking from page to screen to see how the transition occurred.

Off The Bookshelf

1:01:10 to 1:24:27

Josh continues the Bizarro world version of himself by talking about a video game for the second week in a row. Meanwhile, Dietrich comes away from the new James Bond film bored and disappointed, Josh discusses one of the most bizarre events in film, and they round it out by discussing the final season of Fringe, a show that, despite its many flaws, the pair deeply love.