YOU want an epic with a capital E? A real bum-numbing, head-scratching heap of high-concept shenanigans for the ages?

Well, here it is. Adapted from the reputedly "unfilmable" novel by David Mitchell, Cloud Atlas puts six different plots through a historical maze spanning more than 500 years, from the cosy familiarity of the 18th century to the brave new world of the future.

With a multitude of actors (including Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugo Weaving, Susan Sarandon and Jim Broadbent) playing multiple roles, this is a monster truck loaded to full capacity with much profundity and banality.

You may not like everything it is carrying, but it often inspires genuine awe as the whole thing passes you by.

There are a few cracking action sequences, a lot of sudden switching of eras and storytelling genres, and plenty of pretentious posturing about how inter-connected everything in the world can be.

What does it all mean?

Your interpretation is just as valid as anyone involved with the creation of this elaborate enigma.

Why bother?

Well, those viewers who fall under the elusive spell cast by Cloud Atlas will cherish the experience for a long time to come.

If you extend some moderate patience in this film's direction  and it is not always easy to do so  the relentless warping of time, space, religion, philosophy and trends in facial tattooing really does grow on you.

Even in the silliest moments of Cloud Atlas (bet you never thought you'd live to see Hugh Grant as a marauding cannibal warrior, huh?), you can't help but good-naturedly admire how committed all involved have been to realise this bizarre and baffling vision.

Masterpiece or folly? Perhaps both. Collector's item cinema? Undoubtedly.

Brought to you by the makers of The Matrix and Run Lola Run, Cloud Atlas will leave you with just as many questions as its famous alumni.

Cloud Atlas (M) is out now. Review by Leigh Paatsch.

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