interesting; but no dr. strangelove

Rating: 8/10 (9 August 1999)

finally, about three weeks ago, kubrick gives the film world his final opus, eyes wide shut. after seeing it a couple of times, i enjoyed the film, but it's definitely not as good as dr. strangelove, 2001, full metal jacket, or a clockwork orange. it's very reminiscent of barry lyndon. the stunning set designs, color, photography, lighting, and glacial pace. the grainy film was interesting, too. it made you feel as if you just woke up from a nap and are looking around. cruise was serviceable, as he appears in virtually every minute of the film. but at times he seemed to try too hard for melodrama. kidman was very impressive as his wife, and should have been more involved in the film. the editing felt uneven towards the end of the film, and there was one scene in which the shadow of a crew man entered the picture. surprising errors from a kubrick film, since he is notorious for his meticulousness. if he was still alive, i'm sure these would have been improved on. the ending felt forced and abrupt, especially the pool scene where they tried to answer some of the questions posed. the movie would have been more effective if there was more evidence of distrust between the couple. the message kubrick is implying about infidelity may seem dated to many, especially in the late nineties. some darkly funny moments that seem to poke fun at the media who question cruise's sexuality e.g. college homophobes, hotel clerk, hooker's friend. and last, it was just 20 minutes too long, but i never really felt bored. in conclusion, eyes wide shut should be seen by any serious film buff. i recommend "after hours" by scorsese, which depicts another man lost in a surreal sexual underworld. it's funnier and more poignant.
p.s. pay attention to the scene where cruise is in the coffee house. you'll be surprised at who you see sitting.