Radical Experimentalism

Rating: 10/10 (3 January 2009)

This was a movie that focused on pushing the envelope of film-making. But that's not all that it was; it developed into it's own world, with nuances and subtleties. Many complain about the pacing, but in reality, it would take about 15 minutes to dock a spaceship; this movie tried to make art model life instead of ADD characters jumping from idea to idea. This movie made fine transitions and was a perfect meld of sight and sound. The true experimentalism begins when Bowman reaches out into the netherworld and loses himself in time. This movie tells you just enough to keep you in the loop, but not enough to give away symbols and the ideals of Kubrick. Any differences between the book and the film a easily forgivable when compared to this fantastic monument to the experimentalism of the '60's. It's not just about experimentalism though, which tends to be the bane of other experimental movies, it is an intricate story, too. When I first watched this movie I knew I had to watch it again. Eventually, I just purchased it and have enjoyed the special features. Anyone who's serious about directing, writing, or having a successful career in any medium of the arts should buy this movie. Anyone else, buy it too; it'll take you to space (and possibly give you a contact high).