Truly a must-see masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (22 March 2006)

Rather different from any other Kubrick piece...Barry Lyndon still reeks of Kubrick direction (it's a good thing of course). Each scene is beautifully crafted, and each frame of the film could be used as a painting in an art museum. I don't think there's a more picturesque film out there than this one - though A Clockwork Orange would be a close second. The witty third person narrative was a great touch...never detracts from the story even though he tells you what happens beforehand. Barry, like Alex in ACO, is a despicable character, but you can't help but identify and sympathize when the situation calls for it. In the 3+ hour run time (though it never feels as long) - you feel every different emotion for Barry that Kubrick/Thackeray intended. In one scene you'll be apologetic, in the next you'll be outraged. Ryan O'Neal and Leon Vitali both give excellent performances, and the rest of the cast does an amiable job as well.
It's not a film for everyone, as it takes it's time unfolding the story (as many Kubrick films do), and yes, it is rather long...but if viewed for nothing more than the beauty of it, itself, this masterpiece should be seen at least once by anyone who considers themselves a lover of film. One of Stanley Kubrick's finest, a technical achievement in itself, and a masterpiece of period films.
9 out of 10.