The future of science fiction can be found in the minds of Tom Tykwer, Andy Wachowski and Lana Wachowski, as evidenced by their collaborative effort “Cloud Atlas.” Breathtaking in ambition and vast in scope, the interconnected epic spans space and time and brings together common themes of reincarnation and love.

Based on David Mitchell’s equally expansive 2004 novel, “Cloud Atlas” revolves around six different souls who each play a part in one another’s tales as the film’s six narratives play out. The impressive cast — led by Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Ben Whishaw, Jim Broadbent, Doona Bae, Hugo Weaving and Jim Sturgess — tackles a bevy of roles that transcend race, gender, sexuality and even the space-time continuum.

In addition to the stunning feats of the actors, the visuals — as expected for a film involving the Wachowskis (directors and writer of “The Matrix”) — are equally brilliant.

The plot of Cloud Atlas’” is equally stunning. The Wachowskis and Tykwer have managed to successfully adapt Mitchell’s book, which many had deemed to be “unfilmable.” The story does not resemble a traditional narrative in any way, shape or form. While that may drive some moviegoers away, many audiences have been thrilled by the filmmakers’ lyrical storytelling.

This is not a film that can be absorbed in one viewing, instantly judged and then casually tossed aside. “Cloud Atlas” does not spoon-feed the audience for even a second of its nearly three-hour running time. To truly experience what the three directors attempt to share with the world, viewers must experience the film in a theater. The ride is a thing beyond imagination, and viewers will want to return as soon as the film comes to its conclusion.

Of course, everyone’s experience will be different. At the very least, “Cloud Atlas” bears one common denominator, no matter who the viewer: a message that could foreshadow the bold future of science fiction cinema. It’s an adventure that fans will remember long after they bid the film’s six different worlds goodbye and return to their own worlds outside of the theater.

A version of this article appeared in the Thursday, Dec. 6 print edition. Charlie Spector is a contributing writer. Email him at [email protected].