The Shining (Stanley Kubrick, 1980): USA

Reviewed by Sandra Doyle. Viewed at the Metropolitan 4 Theatre.


I am probably one of the few people who had not seen “The Shining” before and although I probably deserve some criticism for that, it does offer me a fresh perspective. While cringing and terrified I tried my best to actually physically watch Stanley Kubrick’s take on Steven King’s novel. I found this especially challenging not only due to the fact that I am a wimp and thus typically avoid scary movies at all costs, but because in this film Stanley Kubrick has mastered how to scare an audience for generations to come. If I had the psychic powers of the shining like poor little Danny I’d be able to see that by the end of this review I’d be scared all over again and if I knew what was good for me I would stop right here. But alas I can’t receive visions of any sort and fortunately their isn’t a little girl inside my mouth speaking through me because that just might constitute as plagiarism. Cabin fever takes on a new meaning when the Torrance family of three inhabits a remote summertime resort during its off-season to see it through the winter. Evil spirits haunt the place and begin to have a dangerous influence Mr. Torrance, played by Jack Nicholson. Shelley Duvall played the terrified Mrs. Torrance beyond perfection and had to do 127 takes for the famous baseball bat scene, the most takes ever done on a set in history. The performances by both actors could carry the film alone they are so convincing. Too bad for them they are far from alone in that humongous lodge.  Kubrick broke new ground with the cinematography and invented the steady cam for the necessary fluid and smooth camera movement that he used in various scenes. This effect is eerie along with the musical score that builds tension at the right and wrong times keeping you on your toes, never knowing if there is something to be afraid of or not, successfully putting you in the frame of mind of the characters.  Sound is utilized masterfully and the droning of little Danny’s tricycle as it alternates between the hardwood floor and carpet as he cruises around the hotel creates some indescribable subtle terror. For those of you unfamiliar with “The Shining” as I once was I can’t decide if you are lucky or not.  As of right now you should be able to go about your daily life without traumatizing flashbacks from this film, which I do envy in a way. Yet at the same time you are missing out on a cinematic experience that was so memorable even I would consider those moments of flashbacks worth it, and when I say worth it that does include my money spent, my loss of sleep, and this sickening urge to watch it again. Yes “The Shining” is an extremely well done scary movie that I consider unsurpassable, but it is also a very well made film in itself and I think any audience regardless of the horror genre can appreciate that.


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