Kubrick’s ‘The Shining’ (Stephen King novel) is a masterpiece that will continue to transcend.
‘The Shining’ is a thought-provoking meditation on spiraling madness, isolation and paranoia and is presented in such a majestic form that could only be done by Stanley Kubrick.
Kubrick’s direction is masterful, building tension and suspense through meticulous attention to detail and slow, deliberate pacing that allows the horror to build gradually.
The acting is out of this world and Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall and Danny Lloyd deliver powerhouse performances.
Jack played brilliantly by Jack Nicholson was top notch as he perfectly captured the character’s slow descent into madness, making his eventual outburst unhinged, shocking and terrifying.
Shelley Duvall also delivers a powerful and vulnerable performance as Wendy, conveying both her character’s fear and strength as she fights to protect her son.
In my opinion, Danny Lloyd gave the best child actor performance of all time.
Kubrick’s mastery of the art of cinema is on display in every frame. The cinematography and innovative camerawork were perfect. The daunting landscapes in the Overlook Hotel were magnificent. The film’s iconic visuals, from the blood-filled elevators to the creepy twins, have become cultural touchstones.
The chilling score by Wendy Carlos and Rachel Elkind is spectacular as it adds dimension in the film’s haunting atmosphere.
Kubrick’s masterful direction, spectacular visuals, excellent screenplay and powerhouse performances make it a true classic. This is easily one of my favorite films of all time.