'Cloud Atlas' maps course for a Oct. 26 release

Concept art from "Cloud Atlas," which will be released in October.

Warner Bros. Pictures has officially slated the epic "Cloud Atlas," from filmmakers Lana Wachowski, Tom Tykwer and Andy Wachowski for domestic release on October 26, 2012.

In addition, the studio has acquired rights for the film in the major markets of the UK, France, Spain, Australia, and Japan, with plans to release it in those territories in early 2013. The joint announcement was made Tuesday by Dan Fellman, President of Domestic Distribution, and Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, President of International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.

"Audiences who have seen an early screening of 'Cloud Atlas' have been elated by its powerful and inspiring story, as well as its breathtaking visuals," Fellman stated. "An October release in North America is the perfect window to showcase this epic film."

"We are proud to be distributing this remarkable motion picture in a number of key markets," Kwan Vandenberg said. "We look forward to working with these visionary filmmakers and the other international distribution partners to bring 'Cloud Atlas' to moviegoers around the world."

Academy Award® winners Tom Hanks ("Philadelphia," "Forrest Gump") and Halle Berry ("Monster's Ball") lead an international cast that includes Oscar winner Jim Broadbent ("Iris"), Hugo Weaving, Jim Sturgess, Doona Bae, Ben Whishaw, James D'Arcy, Zhou Xun and Keith David, with Oscar winner Susan Sarandon ("Dead Man Walking") and Hugh Grant. Each member of the ensemble appears in multiple roles as the stories move through time.

Hugh Grant joins Wachowski's 'Cloud Atlas'

Actor Hugh Grant has joined the Wachowski's adaptation of "Cloud Atlas," which will begin filming Friday.

Hugh Grant

According to Screen Daily, filming will take place in Glasgow, Spain and Germany. It was reported last month that co-directors Andy and Lana Wachowski ("The Matrix") and Tom Tykwer ("Run Lola Run," "Perfume: The Story of a Murderer") will be filming simultaneously with the former handling the more futuristic settings while the latter shoots the period stories.

Based on the novel by David Mitchell, the movie will tell six stories in different times and places, ranging from 19th century Australia to post-apocalyptic Hawaii. The novel was originally published in 2004.

Grant joins Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugo Weaving, Susan Sarandon and Jim Broadbent.