Yet Another Kubrick Masterpiece...

Rating: 10/10 (24 February 2011)

The Shining is a 1980 psychological horror film directed by Stanley Kubrick, co-written with novelist Diane Johnson, and starring Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, and Danny Lloyd. The film is based on the novel of the same name, by Stephen King, about a writer with a wife and young son who accepts the job of off-season caretaker at an isolated hotel. The son, who possesses psychic abilities, is able to see things in the future or past, such as the ghosts in the hotel. Soon after moving in, and after a paralyzing winter storm that leaves the family snowbound, the father becomes influenced by the supernatural presence in the haunted hotel; he descends into madness and attempts to kill his wife and son.
Atmospheric horror, superb background sound-effects, top notch performances by veteran actors Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall and Scatman Crothers and the best child actor I have seen to date: Danny Lloyd.
Danny is simply gorgeous all though the film. At such a young age his acting is phenomenal. He is shoulder to shoulder with the big names in the film.
The best and most memorable scene in the film is Danny sitting in Jack Nicholson's lap, having a father-to-son conversation.
Jack Nicholson who portrays the writer and ex-schoolteacher, gives a professional performance and thoroughly gets into the act. The character he portrays literally undergoes a transformation before your eyes. He is complemented well by Shelley Duvall who plays the wife of Jack's character. She portrays a simple housewife who passes her time with household chores and taking care of their only son. Danny Lloyd who plays Jack's son is simply a joy to behold throughout the film. The role fits him like a glove and his acting is simply phenomenal.
Not to forget to mention Scatman Crothers who always gives his best to us. He is a born actor and his presence on screen is very powerful. The film really clicks into gear when he and Danny have a personal conversation about the Overlook Hotel over some ice-cream. And it is here that he mentions about that very special gift: The Shining....
Overall 10/10. Add this one to your DVD collection.