Slow-moving film with astounding cinematics

Rating: 9/10 (28 April 2002)

2001: A Space Odyssey progresses slowly, and the lack of dialogue can be unnerving. Those who dislike this movie (there are quite a few, Kubrick films tend to be either loved or hated) tend to focus upon this "flaw". However, the movie is extremely well done. Most science fiction movies do not survive more than 5 or 10 years; yet in 2001: A Space Odyssey the scenery is more than simply believable, it is immersive. Viewers will feel the atmosphere. Kubrick films simply don't look like they've been filmed with a camera. As for the film's "message"... Kubrick didn't like to talk about his movies because he thought they should "speak for themselves."
The movie's craft is enough justification to see it, if you haven't yet. If you're impatient then be forewarned: the pace of the movie is quite demanding.