The Shining (1980)

Horror film co-written, produced and directed by Stanley Kubrick, starring Jack Nicholson.

Though it deviates from Stephen King’s novel, Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining is a chilling, often baroque journey into madness – exemplified by an unforgettable turn from Jack Nicholson.
Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Story: A family heads to an isolated hotel for the winter where a sinister presence influences the father into violence, while his psychic son sees horrific forebodings from both past and future. (IMDb)

Where to watch The Shining?

Here’s Johnny! The Shining (1980) – A Spine-Chilling Ride through the Kubrickian Horrorland

– Retrospective & Movie Review –

Today, let’s step into the creepy corridors of the Overlook Hotel and revisit Stanley Kubrick’s cinematic masterpiece, “The Shining.” Released in 1980, this psychological horror film has left an indelible mark on the genre, cementing its place as a classic that continues to haunt our dreams.

From the get-go, the film sucks you into its chilling atmosphere like a vacuum on overdrive. Kubrick, the master of meticulousness, ensures every frame is a work of art. The sweeping aerial shots of the snow-covered Colorado mountains, coupled with the eerie score, set the stage for what’s about to unfold. It’s like a sinister ballet, and you’re about to become the unwilling spectator.

Jack Nicholson, in his iconic role as Jack Torrance, brings an unhinged brilliance to the screen. His descent into madness is both terrifying and oddly entertaining. There’s a certain madness in his eyes that makes you question whether he’s acting or if he genuinely needs an intervention. Shelley Duvall, as Wendy, plays the perfect foil, her wide-eyed terror acting as a mirror to the audience’s growing unease.

Let’s talk about the infamous “Here’s Johnny!” scene. Nicholson’s manic delivery turns a simple line into a catchphrase for horror enthusiasts everywhere. It’s a moment that combines terror and a dash of dark humor, illustrating Kubrick’s ability to balance horror and psychological tension with a touch of the absurd.

Kubrick’s meticulous attention to detail shines (pun intended) in every aspect of the film. The labyrinthine layout of the Overlook Hotel becomes a character in itself, a maze that mirrors the labyrinth of Jack’s deteriorating sanity. The iconic carpet patterns, the hypnotic repetition of the number 237, and the strategically placed hedge animals – every element is a piece of Kubrick’s grand puzzle.

Now, let’s address the elephant (or should I say ghostly twin daughters) in the room – the criticisms. Some argue that the film’s pacing is akin to a slow, agonizing crawl. Sure, it doesn’t unfold like your typical horror flick, with jump scares every five minutes.

Instead, Kubrick opts for a gradual build-up, akin to the unsettling feeling of a nightmare that creeps up on you. It’s a deliberate choice, and while it might not be everyone’s cup of horror tea, it adds to the film’s unique flavor.

There’s also the criticism that the characters lack depth, that they’re more like pieces on Kubrick’s chessboard than fully fleshed-out individuals. While I understand the sentiment, I’d argue that this detachment is intentional. Kubrick wants us to feel the isolation and disconnect that plagues the Torrance family in the vast, empty Overlook Hotel. It’s a bold move that might leave some viewers craving a bit more emotional investment.

And let’s not forget the controversial departure from Stephen King’s novel. King himself expressed dissatisfaction with Kubrick’s interpretation, feeling that it deviated too much from his vision. While it’s true that the film takes liberties with the source material, it’s essential to appreciate Kubrick’s vision as a standalone work of art. The Shining on screen is a Kubrickian nightmare, a hallucinogenic trip through the maze of the human psyche.

What truly sets “The Shining” apart is its ability to induce a lingering sense of unease. The ambiguous ending, with Jack Torrance mysteriously appearing in a photograph from a July 4th, 1921 party at the Overlook Hotel, leaves viewers scratching their heads. It’s the kind of conclusion that sparks countless debates and theories, a testament to the film’s lasting impact.

In conclusion, “The Shining” is a cinematic rollercoaster that takes you on a wild ride through the corridors of terror and madness. Kubrick’s visual mastery, combined with Nicholson’s unforgettable performance, creates an experience that transcends the traditional horror genre.

Sure, it has its quirks and might not be everyone’s cup of horror tea, but there’s no denying its lasting influence on the genre. So, grab your axe, don’t disturb the hedge animals, and revisit the Overlook Hotel – if you dare!

Stephen Galen Estevan

A cinephile whose love for the Silver Screen transcends eras and genres. Armed with a deep passion for films, from classic masterpieces to contemporary gems, I’m on a lifelong quest to explore all 100+ years of Cinema, one Frame at a time. Care to join the adventure?

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