The finest piece of cinematic genious... Ever!

Rating: 10/10 (9 November 2003)

I have been a fan of both Kubrick and Clarke for many years now, but I had always avoided watching this movie because I couldn't see how it could possibly match the brilliance of the novel (Which is one of my most loved books). However, after finally seeing it, I am happy. no ecstatic. to say that it didn't match the novel, it surpassed it!
Kubrick did an amazing job of keeping in the deep profound meaning of the story, which is really what makes this movie so great in my opinion. It puts forward theories and asks questions which not only entertain, but make you want to think and discuss, for a long time after you have seen the movie. The shear grand scope of the subject matter in my opinion makes almost all other movies pale into insignificance. What could be more profound than a story about the very existence of our race, and its position and meaning in the universe?
The effects in this movie are amazing; not in a `3D generated CGI wiz-bang eye candy' type of way, but in a far more mature way. The purpose of them is to portray a scene in the most realistic way possible, and in my opinion by doing so, they work much more effectively than any movie made in more modern times, with greater effects technology and budget. I was completely amazed that this movie was filmed all those years ago in 1968.
People who are after a movie that provides light entertainment value and does not require much thought or patience would do well to avoid 2001: A Space Odyssey. However for those who are after a deep and rich movie experience, and are willing to put in the work (in terms of patience and thought) will be greatly rewarded. The meaning of this movie is most definitely not served up to the viewer on a silver platter, and you may have to watch it a few times, or discuss it with others before you truly understand it. Everyone's interpretation of it may be different. That's what makes it so thought-provoking.