An Almost Masterpice

Rating: 9/10 (22 April 2019)

This science-fiction classic has four sequences all of which include a mysterious black monolith that has special powers: 1) a pre-historic story of a group of apes trying to survive; 2) a future in which humans occupy space stations and there is a concern of an epidemic at one of those stations; 3) a space mission to Jupiter in which two astronauts are at work with a computer, HAL 9000, who is supposedly perfect but maybe not so; 4) a truly "spacey" sequence to follow #3.
Like many films, this one is to be judged on both style and substance. For substance, only the third sequence is clear and brilliantly made. The subtle conflicts between HAL and the astronauts has the tension of a horror movie. It is also worth noting that HAL seems to have more emotion than the humans. This is especially notable in a scene where one astronaut is indifferent and emotionless while receiving a recorded video message from his parents. The scene in which HAL suspects a conspiracy is one of film history's greatest.
The other three sequences are still interesting but often unclear. It is debatable as to whether clarity is necessary as the intention was to get to the viewers' subconscious minds. While this works well, more clarity might have been more preferable to close at least a few links in the mystery.
The style in all four sequences can easily be described as sublime. It's no wonder so many consider this film to be a masterpiece. Director Stanley Kubrick's use of visuals, and special effects with classical music is heavenly. The imaginative set designs of the space stations and vehicles are also amazing.
"2001: A Space Odyssey" is over half a century old. While technology and special effects have advanced greatly since its time, the film's effect remains so strong that it is still the benchmark science-fiction film to which all others must be compared.
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS:
1) Directing by Stanley Kubrick
2) Technical and Craft Team: Special Effects, Cinematography, Sound, Set Design, Musical Score Adaptation