When Cloud Atlas hits the movie screens later in 2012 it is expected to be one of the most heavily publicized movies of 2012. It will need every bit of publicity it receives – with a budget estimated at anywhere between $150 million and $200 million major global box office success is required just to break even.

It’s complicated

The movie is an adaptation of the 2004 book by British author David Mitchell, telling six stories across six different periods from the 19th century to a post-apocalyptic future. The plot in the book moves forward through time until the middle of the book and then regresses in the second half of the story, tying up some but not all loose ends before ending right where it started, in the Pacific Ocean in 1850.

Many have questioned just how just a complex plot can be turned into a movie, with some predicting a masterpiece and others a complete disaster. That the film is directed by the Wachowski brothers (The Matrix) would suggest that whatever else the movie might be, it will certainly provide a visual feast.

The cast list reads like a modern-day who’s who of the movie world: Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant, Susan Sarandon and Hugo Weaving all star in a production that has the actors switching roles, eras and even genders as the plot unravels.

Majorca awaits its magic moment

The island of Majorca was chosen as one of the main locations for the movie. With its sandy beaches, rocky coves and spectacular cliffs the landscape was considered perfect to double up as both Hawaii and the South Pacific.

Local officials and hotel owners in Majorca are expecting the movie to signal a tourism bonanza for the island in the same way that Lord of the Rings put New Zealand firmly on the international circuit. The locals gave the cast and crew a warm welcome and are now waiting impatiently for the film’s release and the boom in Majorca holidays that they hope will follow.

Halle Berry and the runaway goat

Perhaps one star who left Majorca with less than fond memories is Halle Berry. She had to be taken off the set and flown to a French hospital after she broke her foot while chasing a goat during a break in filming.  Proof that even the most graceful folks can do silly things when no-one is looking!

Photo | Max Sorglos

Majorca awaits its magic moment. Will you be part of it? Spend your next holiday with Iberostar in Majorca. Click here for more information.