A film that demands several watchings to extract complex themes & issues.

Rating: Null/10 (22 August 1999)

Having never seen a Kubrick film before, I was unsure of what to expect. The hype surrounding this film in Melbourne was extraordinary; even if you lived under a rock you knew this film was Kubrick's last, and was a "masterpeice". What I can say is that it is an extraordinary piece of cinematography, with performances by Kidman/Cruise that were both plausible and interesting to watch. Wandering along a path that at times seemed to be thinly linked, (yet is later revealed to be intertwined) I found this a disturbing watch yet one that I could no tear my eyes away from. Despite what Fred Niles would want us to believe, the nudity used throughout is another element that has been manipulated to expose the possible corruption that could take place in a short period of time. If anyone has views on the symbolism of the final bedroom shot (Mask on pillow) I would be interested for you to contact me.
For goodness sake, see this film with an open mind; leave what you expect at the door to the theatre and enjoy the ride.