When less isn't necessarily more....

Rating: 6/10 (17 September 2010)

It's been 30 years since THE SHINING first premiered, and it continues to spark debate among cineasts to this day. What CANNOT be disputed is it's lasting impact on a legion of Kubrick devotees. His only foray into the horror genre, though at times thematically uneven, is nonetheless thought-provoking and a strangely unsettling viewing experience. Say what you want about the screenplay or performances, THE SHINING is certainly the best LOOKING horror film of all time. Kubrick's matchless eye for detail and his use of long, winding roller-coaster-like steadicam shots gives the film a unique, otherworldly look. Everyone always comments on Jack Nicholson's scenery chewing and hamminess, but his pivotal scene in the restroom with Grady the caretaker is nicely underplayed and one of film horror's finest moments. I do however agree that the film's denouement is oddly anti-climactic and disappointing. I think Kubrick just ran out of steam.