In my mind THIS is Kubrick's best film

Rating: 10/10 (20 May 2009)

Excellent movie about Barry Lyndon (Ryan O'Neal) in 18th century England. He's a poor man who marries a rich widow (Marisa Benenson) and tries to assume her husband's place. However it all ends tragically.
Many people hate this film. They think it's too long (3 hours+) and boring (when saw it at a revival house years ago most of the audience left during the intermission!). However I think this is director Stanley Kubrick's best film. I was never bored once. The scenery is just gorgeous, the story engrossing and (surprisingly) O'Neal gives an excellent performance. The story does move at a deliberate (meaning slow) pace but that's needed to understand the characters and situations. If you're looking for a quick loud movie with lots of action this isn't for you. However if you're looking for a beautifully made and intricate film about a man's rise and downfall this is for you. I especially love that this doesn't assume that the audience is a bunch of idiots--the narration explains the events calmly and clearly without talking down to you. Easily Kubrick's best film ever. MUCH better than the wildly overrated "2001". A 10 all the way.