"Open the pod bay doors, HAL."

Rating: 10/10 (23 March 2014)

Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey is a film that understands the questions that drive us and explores them in a manner that is unparalleled in the history of the cinema. It is not a movie as much as a full blown experience. In fact, as millions of people can attest, even trying to watch "2001" in a way one watches any other movie will simply lead to frustration and annoyance. People expect dialogue, plot, humor and resolution in their movies. The want a narrative that they are familiar with and that they understand. Kubrick's film is an experience more like watching a ballet or opera than actually sitting down and watching a movie. It is a movie that takes work, concentration, and patience. You soak in its images in all of their beauty and think about what is on the screen. Eventually the picture grips you on a subconscious level and speaks to you in the same way any great art does- personally. Once you get the message that Kubrick is trying to give, you can't necessarily verbalize it- you just feel it and are in awe.
"What is it about?"
Most of the time I can give a pretty simple synopsis of what a movie is about and why they should watch it. I can't do this with 2001. I simply smile and say "it's about everything."
A few minor qualms that I felt dejected was the pace of the story (which really lacks), lack of depth to the history of the black monolith and certain dragging scenes (replacing the damaged part, ships landing on the moon, etc.). I felt too much details on the props and effects. I'm just one who enjoys a good story, smart screenplay, artists performances, realism, what we can learn from, score and cinematography. Other than that 2001: A Space Odyssey delivers some of the qualities that make an awesome film, and has influenced Directors and movie fans alike.
This groundbreaking film may have various effects depending on the viewer. If your into fast paced, dialogue heavy and interesting plots, then this may not be entertaining. For lovers of visual effects, less script, snail paced yet detailed settings, thought provoking moments and exquisite psychedelic like visuals, then this will be a treat.
"2001: A Space Odyssey" is likewise a stand-along monument, a great visionary leap, unsurpassed in its vision of man and the universe. It was a statement that came at a time which now looks something like the peak of humanity's technological optimism.