The Making of Star Among the Cosmic Clouds: Film Review

 “The Making of Star Among the Cosmic Clouds: from Song to Symphony” by Susan Lim is an epic behind the scenes look at the magic and magnitude of just what happens when a collaboration of artists and creators come together out of a shared interest and vision to help uplift the world. It is not only a love letter to these beautiful creative beings, but also to the notion that there is good in humanity and in the very stars from which we once came and will go again. 

The film explores the making of and the process of the song Star Among the Cosmic Clouds from the album LIM: Cosmic Rhapsody. An album born out of a collaboration of international artists, helmed by Susan Lim. Artists from all over the world, Los Angeles, Singapore, India, London, all came together during the isolation of the Coronavirus outbreak to create what would become the album LIM: Cosmic Rhapsody. And based on this song, it would seem the entire album would be something worth seeking out. 

One cannot help but sense that the inception of this song was born out of a drive and desire to connect, or rather reconnect the spirit of humanity with one another, with the potential of technology and with the cosmos itself that lay beyond our current perception. As the film unfolds, the viewer is swept in and transfixed with the awe and wonder of the music. Both music and lyrics are dream-like, epic and cinematic in scope and tone. Then in comes the curious and mystic animation that seem to tickle and intrigue something deep within our own souls. Calling us to some kind of awakening. And once we are met with the orchestral piece of the film, the viewer is flown to another time and place. A place of wonder and stardust. Of curiosity and hopefulness. And a sense of belonging, and of cosmic purpose.

The film arrives with a message of hope and positivity as it highlights the themes of the song and album. The film underscores the importance of championing collaboration and artistry. Through music and art, humanity can be remade, reconnected, rejuvenated. The themes of regeneration, rebirth, purpose, of a coming together, of curiosity, exploration, heightened awareness, and a synergistic relationship between humanity and technology wash over the viewer as the powerful and moving orchestral performances play. 

With this powerful piece of music and insightful little film, Lim has given viewers something to ponder with awe and optimism. As a co-creator and lyricist, she brings in other talented creators, who are highlighted in the film. Joi Barua, composer and song-writer/singer, seems the beating heart of the piece. As he sings the words, the viewer surely feels the purpose and magnetic energy of his soulful performance. Talents such as Manu Martin, Jerome Buigues, Frederic Riviere, Jean-Luc Veran, Ian Winter, Robert Ziegler, and vocalists Killian Donnelly (former Phantom of the Opera), and Tom Ball among many other talented artists round out this epic cast of collaborators. 

The film culminates with the inaugural performance of the piece at the illustrious Barbican Concert Hall in London. Performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, led by conductor Robert Ziegler and voiced by Tom Ball. The viewer is met with a deeply satisfying performance by some of the world’s greatest musicians. No doubt those present for the live performance were left wonder struck, as the viewer of the film may be as well. An all-encompassing performance filled with immortal and celestial notions revibrates into the hearts and minds of the viewer. The song speaks to the well of inspiration and depth of mystery one can derive from the cosmos. It stays with the viewer for days afterward. Both the magnitude of the music as well as the deeper questions it evokes. Are we alone? Is there something more out there? Something we humans are meant for? Can we coexist with the future of technology? Is collaboration the answer? And… what is the significance of that little llama?

The film is an endearing look at how one little spark of a creative seed can unfurl, spread its tendrils (or cosmic dust in this case), and bloom into a multifaceted collaboration of artists that explore such deep and broad-reaching, yet profoundly human and heart-centered ideas. And in this day and age, any film that leaves audiences feeling more hopeful, connected, curious and alive is definitely one worth watching.