Archive for the ‘Stanley Kubrick’ Category:
2001: A Space Odyssey
The greatest motion picture ever made. A truly cinematic experience. The more you see it, the more you see in it. Kubrick transcended all other science fiction films. There is nothing else like 2001. It is the story of the evolution of mankind. Talk about ambitious!
The Shining
The most cinematic and artistically genius horror film ever made. Forget the ghosts, Kubrick has made a movie about domestic violence within a dysfunctional family. Brilliant performances and soundtrack. In the late 70s, America’s divorce rate was at an all-time high. Kubrick taps into our cultural anxiety brilliantly. It’s insane just how original The Shining is. Kubrick’s pacing and use of space is what sets this masterpiece apart from most horror films. The over-the-top performances totally get under your skin. Nicholson and Duvall are perfectly cast. I saw this movie when I was eight and it scarred me for life.
Eyes Wide Shut
Definitive Kubrick. Eerie, unsettling, hypnotic and completely original. Years ahead of film today.
Barry Lyndon
Dehumanization is one of Kubrick’s most favorite themes. Who’s at fault in this tragic story? Isn’t every one equal? The irony and absurdity is perfectly captured throughout this picturesque and truly epic tale. On the surface everything is splendid in its rich and mannered ways. But below the surface lurks the vulgar and hypocritical society. People are ugly and corrupt. Kubrick portrays us as who we are and not as who we’d like to be. It’s a film unlike anything else. Kubrick pioneered new camera technology to create a look that feels completely authentic to its era. Ultimately, it’s a tragic character study with brilliant set pieces. Above all, it’s the pacing and tempo that makes this film so engrossing. The music, imagery (like paintings coming to life) and controlled performances make this film so immensely captivating.
Dr. Strangelove
The greatest satire ever filmed. Genius writing and impeccable acting, especially from Peter Sellers. Kubrick can do no wrong.
A Clockwork Orange
Disturbing satire. Totally complete and acute in its vision with a profound statement on free will. Scary, yet hilarious.
Paths of Glory
One half in the trenches, the other half in the courtroom. Both equally disturbing. One of the finest anti-war films ever made.
Lolita
Twisted comedy with a great cast. Controversial for its time. Now it remains hilarious and quite sad. Sellers is outstanding as usual.
Full Metal Jacket
The first half is among the greatest war films ever made. The second half (adapted from a different book) is more enigmatic and surreal. All in all, a fascinating Vietnam film to say the least.
The Killing
A great crime film. It put Kubrick on the map. He attempts film noir with great results. Simple, smart and entertaining. Tarantino borrowed a thing or two from this early Kubrick film.
