Kubrick's last film may not be his best, but it still great

Rating: 9/10 (17 July 1999)

Eyes Wide Shut will be remembered as Kubrick's last film, not his greatest. But it is still a great film, none the less. The attention to detail, mood and lighting that are the hallmark of Kubrick's work are all found here. The story itself is fascinating. The sexuality is blatant, but with an interesting twist: the only real erotic sex is between Cruise and Kidman, all the other sex is portrayed as cold and heartless, or in effective black and white for fantasy sequences.
This was a stunning, and beautiful film. Be prepared for the unexpected. Be prepared to be shaken. This is not a film that leaves you easily. When I saw it opening night, the entire audience was mesmerized. They laughed out loud at some of the humorous parts, but otherwise were completely silent. In my opinion, this film did not have the gripping intensity of The Shining or Full Metal Jacket, but like all of Kubrick's films, it is an instant classic that warrants watching again and again.