Absurdist Black Comedy

Rating: 10/10 (8 July 2012)

I first saw this on TV at age 17, on the insistence of my father. I knew nothing about the film. Dad had a devilish glint in his eye for some unknown reason, and seemed to watch me more than the film. Given the subject matter of the film, something didn't seem right. Well, I'll never forget the moment the light bulb went off in my head (Muffley's reaction to the fight), when I asked Dad, "Is this a comedy?". He joyfully laughed and said no more. The point which the director was making hit me like a ton of bricks: I was a victim of calculated subversion, and not just by the director. F'ing brilliant! And so began my appreciation for the gifts of Stanley Kubrick.
I wish everyone could have this kind of initial experience, going in only with some basic knowledge of Cold War history. There is no question, the level of absurdity in Strangelove grows as the nightmare builds. Perhaps for the reason that everyone will "get it", perhaps so the viewer will "let go" of the plot and examine the themes, characters and symbolism. Or absorb the stunning, searing image of Major Kong's wild ride.