Best Haunted House Movie Ever

Rating: 10/10 (11 February 2000)

I remember going to see "The Empire Strikes Back" in May of 1980 and seeing the trailer for this film. I was only 6 years old so my first reaction to Jack Nicholson was to be completely terrified of him.
I am a big fan of Stephen King's novel of which this film is based on. As different and as simplified as this movie is from the book, this is still an exceptionally spooky horror film. I think Stanley Kubrick did a great job by NOT explaining every supernatural vision portrayed here. The best aspect of his films is that they demand not only repeat viewings but also open up situations that can be debated among viewers long after the film is over. Kubrick does not take the position of someone who knows all about the supernatural - he is just as human as the rest of us. He can only explain as much as we all can see. What it all means is something that creates great conversation although people tend to become frustrated when all the answers are not provided for them.
Whether or not you liked this movie, there is no denying that you will never forget it, especially the images Kubrick creates - the blood pouring out of the elevator, the two little girls, the lady in the bathtub, Jack Torrence's repetitious novel and Jack and his trusty axe chasing a little boy through the hedge maze. And pay attention to the opening credit sequence as Jack drives to the Overlook Hotel - it appears as if the glaring sun in some shots are lined up with Jack's car, as if pulling him towards his dark destiny.
And it's time to give credit where it is due - Shelly Duvall is excellent. The first few times I saw the film, I found her quite annoying. Upon watching it again recently I began to realize that she has many childlike qualities which make her relationship with their son much stronger than what she has with her husband. This gives the films climax more credibility. The rest of the cast is great as well - Danny Lloyd, people claim, is too bland in his role but I think he translates perfectly the insecurity of a child his age having the power he has - capable of conjuring up images that no one should have to bear. I have always been a fan of the late, great Scatman Crothers. Here, he was given a dramatic role and I think he gave his best performance. And, of course, Jack is Jack at his (appropriately) over-the-top best.
But this movie works because of Kubrick, the wonderfully creepy music and the sets for the hotel. I've never seen such ordinary rooms appear so frightening. His use of wide-angle lenses in tight areas make you feel the characters tremendous sense of isolation.
This is not your typical film viewing experience and that is what is so fantastic about it. Films that actually make you think and debate with others - a perspective that many film makers today have all but deserted for "safe, throw-in- everything-including-the-kitchen-sink," story structure. I believe this is a primary example of why our society has become lazy in the way our minds think. We want all our questions answered at the push of a button on our keyboard.
If you want to be truly spooked, you near to obtain that fear of the unknown. "The Shining" will do just that. I promise.