A Movie for Grownups

Rating: Null/10 (9 May 2000)

I can't imaging anyone who is not married, or who has never been in a serious, long term relation ship, "getting" this movie. Not for kids, nor the action movie crowd, or those looking for an erotic thriller, it is one of the finest films ever made. Visually stunning, and very sure of itself, it either speaks to you...or you will be bored stiff. The key to understanding this movie (if understanding is the right word) is the line that Alice delivers very near the end, after Bill's confession to her. She says something like, "We are all fortunate to survive all our adventures, whether they are real or imagined". I can't think of a more profound statement in any film.
It is most interesting to view this film beside "Letter from an Unknown Woman", by Max Ophuls,the only other filmmaker Kubrick cited as an influence. There, Joan Fontaine chases after Louis Jourdan, a pianist(hmmm). She follows him, fantisizes about him, gives up her family and honor for him...and he barely remembers her name. EWS can easily be seen as another take on a similar theme. Dr. Harford figures out in 48 hours, what it took Fontaine's character a lifetime ... ... and neither she, nor the pianist survive their adventure.
If you don't think you will enjoy this movie, you probably will not, so don't bother. But one day, after you have (hopefully) lived through an adventure or two, you will likely stumble over it and it WILL have some meaning for you. Trust me.