Entertainment : In Depth: 'Cloud Atlas' and free showing of Shrek 2

“Cloud Atlas” plays the Palace Friday through Sunday, December 21-23, and Wednesday and Thursday, December 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. There are no shows on Christmas Eve or Christmas.

I’ve been reading about this film for several weeks, and still have no real handle on the storyline. Recently, Palace projectionist Will Hancock and I stood in the back of the auditorium together as the trailer played, collecting seat savers, and agreed – the multiple character-time traveling premise is intriguing. We both are anxious to see “Cloud Atlas.” Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent, Hugh Grant, and Susan Sarandon portray many different characters throughout time, from the year 1849 to 2346.

If you enjoy award-winning acting and a film plot challenge, this movie is for you!

FYI – “Cloud Atlas” is rated R for violence, language, sexuality, nudity, and some drug use. Also, this epic film runs just shy of three hours! Choose your popcorn size accordingly.

But, oh, what a film this is! And what a demonstration of the magical, dreamlike qualities of the cinema. And what an opportunity for the actors. And what a leap by the directors, who free themselves from the chains of narrative continuity. And then the wisdom of the old man staring into the flames makes perfect sense. ~Roger Ebert after watching this film for the second time.

SHREK 2

Kids, Moms, Dads, Grandmas, Grandpas, Big Brothers and Sisters, Favorite Aunts and Uncles, Best Friends -- hope you’ll join us on Wednesday, December 26 at 4 pm for a FREE showing of Shrek 2. The second film in Dreamwork’s iconic series remains the number one box office seller at the Palace. We’re happy to bring it back for your Christmas vacation enjoyment!

Enjoy the season with some hot, buttery popcorn! Merry Christmas!