Redrum Redrum Redrum: The Non-Palindrome Effect

Rating: Null/10 (18 July 2013)

Kubrick's 'The Shining' was groundbreaking in its time. It's been the source of inspiration for numerous films hardly any of which were able to match up to the standard of it. Needless to say, it's got a solid story and some remarkable performances by Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall. Even young Danny Lloyd does a fine job.
However, what's particularly notable and what makes 'The Shining' a unique experience is its atmosphere. The moving camera in the steadycam shots, the art direction (such as the psychedelic wallpapers, floor tiles etc), makeup and lighting are first rate.
Yet, for me one of the most outstanding component of the film are the sound effects and sound design. The clever use of various tools to create this combination of sound that heighten the tension is done superbly. The visual effects are equally dazzling. Who could forget the flood of blood sequence? Several movies have 'used' this sequence to pay homage.
Kubrick's film was a landmark that inspired many horror flicks but 'The Shining' itself delves much deeper into the human psyche (exploring themes of isolation and depravity) than the standard horror movies.