Stanley Kubrick's last film is a strange one

Rating: 10/10 (7 September 2015)

Out of all of Kubrick's films, Eyes Wide Shut is arguably the most decisive. Some say it's a work of art on par with 2001, others say it's just glorified porn. And at first glance, I can see why people would think that. But give it a closer look, and I think it will surprise you.
A doctor called Will living in New York (played by Tom Cruise) discovers his wife (played by Nicole Kidman) had a fantasy about having an affair with a sailor. Understandably angry about this, he leaves to try and gain his own attraction for another woman to get back at her. He eventually gets into a strange sexual cult who discover him and plan to do god knows what to him, but he's saved by a women he saved earlier that day. The cult let him go, but he remains suspicious that they're following him around.
The film is absolutely gorgeous. Kubrick films are well known for being shot like a work of art, but this film takes to a whole new level. It has a very dreamlike look and feel to everything. The colors are hazy and blurry, like when you're feeling tired. Cruise gives a great performance as Will. He manages to sell that this man is feeling betrayed, confused, and even jealous that his wife has these thoughts in her head. Kidman is pretty good as well.
The masked ball scene is easily the highlight of the film. Not because it's erotic, though it certainly is that, but for another reason. Going back to dreams, it feels like something right out of a nightmare. The masks are extremely creepy, as they just stare endlessly. The music is beyond creepy. It sounds otherworldly and just shakes you're nerves effortlessly.
On a side note, have you ever noticed that Kubrick films usually have two distinct halves to them? As in, the story normally makes a big shift halfway into the film. Eyes Wide Shut does something similar. I won't tell you exactly what, but pay attention to the world before and after the masked ball scene, and you'll see what I mean.
I can see why some may be turned off by this film due it's rather 'adult' content, but it's still a masterpiece of film. It is very long, so make sure you have plenty of time, and be sure to let everything sink in.