Like Space - Beautiful, Mysterious, Empty

Rating: 7/10 (21 July 2014)

I have a love-hate relationship with 2001. Seeing it two years ago for a Film 101 class, it was the only one I enjoyed in a semester with the worst films I've ever seen. It was realistic, detailed, a journey into the great unknown. And of course, it was revolutionary for its time. Before then, sci-fi was cheesy pseudo-horror, now only remembered on MS3TK (barring a few exceptions). 2001 was serious, firmly grounded in reality, and ambitious. Its done so well that you could mistake it for a 90s film. Few movies are that timeless. And despite 40 years, I'd say it still holds up. I can't say that for many sci-fi "staples" like Blade Runner, Akira, Ghost in the Shell, and The Matrix.
However...in terms of writing, it really only is a very well done space adventure. I struggle to see how one could get more out of it. Stanley Kubrick rarely gives his films depth. They may be about interesting, important topics, but they do little beyond making the statement.
The film is about evolution, yes. That's literally what's going on. Ancient proto-humans learn to use tools, our tools become spaceships, and Dave evolves into a "star child". You could watch 2001 muted and realize this fact. But how is this reflected in the writing? What else mirrors our evolution, emphasizes the traits that separate us from beasts?
As far as I can tell, nothing.
The film has little conversation despite its 160 minute length. Many can't stand the film because its so slow. I can't blame them. There is no insight, empathy, or development. If you aren't fascinated by the visuals, the film is hollow.
Dave is not the protagonist the film needs. He's such an everyman that he becomes a no-man. He is nothing beyond his occupation. He may evolve, literally, but his emotions have flat-lined. The film could have shown us the power of humanity with his conflict against HAL. HAL may have power and wisdom, but his computer mind is cold and linear. Dave could have used our unique human ingenuity to defeat him, showing how our species have overcome such staggering odds...but no. HAL causes chaos, but is defeated simply. No tricks or negotiation are used. HAL is just slowly unplugged. He ultimately serves no purpose to the theme of evolution - you can argue he represents nature or even God, but how he's overcome evokes nothing.
Honestly, my personal dislike of Stanley Kubrick and his rapid fans probably unjustly effected the rating. Still, although I really enjoyed 2001 the first time, I'm not sure if I could ever watch it again. Its so long, with no character to experience or analyze. I could give a really high recommendation to the types of people who enjoy style over subsistence. Only a handful of sci-fi pull off a similar atmosphere, perhaps none as expertly. For that, I have great respect for the film. But if you're looking for character, some insight into the human race, 2001 is completely irrelevant. So I can only say its above average.