A visually stunning landmark in cinema history

Rating: 10/10 (1 May 2004)

More than almost any other director Kubrick appreciated that cinema should be a rich visual experience and here he provided it like no-one else had done before or has done since, from the opening landscapes to the metaphysical room at the end. The only way to fully appreciate it is on a big screen; I have been lucky enough to see it on one measuring 60 x 30 ft. It was probably the first film to effectively present a solar system theme and the vastness of space. At the time the film was made, of course, the space program was in full swing and the actual first moon walk had yet to take place so it was extremely topical. But apart from a few technological things the film hasn't dated at all and is just as powerful now. I think it should rate in the top 10 of all movies that have been made.