Cloud Atlas, directed by Lana and Andy Wachowski (The Matrix) and Tom Tykwer (Run Lola Run), opens this weekend in theatres across North America.
The time-travelling epic features a large cast of actors in multiple gender-bending roles. “I loved being the man because when I looked in the mirror I couldn’t even see myself, which was really the first time that’s ever happened,” says Susan Sarandon.
Asked which of his characters he preferred, Ben Whishaw says, “I really liked being Hugh Grant’s wife.”
The topic of gender has been much discussed ahead of the movie’s release after Lana Wachowski talked about her transition in a New Yorker feature back in September.
Below are clips from interviews with actors Tom Hanks, Susan Sarandon, Halle Berry and Ben Whishaw at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier this year. Following that, Lana Wachowski speaks about her decision to publicly discuss her trans identity.