A landmark in film making

Rating: 10/10 (24 September 2018)

I actually wrote an essay on this film in high school and got an A. I never saw it as pure horror, psychological or otherwise. To me it represents the implosion of the nuclear family. The hotel just gives the setting for the tragedy to occur. Sure there are ghosts but is it cabin fever or real? Kubrick lets the viewer decide. He uses the hotel like the Minitaur's labyrinth. The floor plan doesn't make any sense. It's all intentional. Also contrary to many horror films, all action happens in lighted rooms. No dark corner or creepy shadows that is a common trope. Kubrick wanted the film to be as plausible as possible and bad things happen in daylight, too. There are so many details in this film it's good to have some knowledge about it to enjoy all the clues. But you can also enjoy it as a well made, effective horror. Moreover, the acting is suberb. Jack is well... Jack Nicholson but Shelley Duvall gives her all. She actually suffered a breakdown during filming because of the intense shooting and Kubrick's infamous perfectionism. The result: a lasting classic that after 38 years still holds it's place as not only one of the best horror movies but as the best films ever made as well.