Barry Lyndon

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Stanley Kubrick's Barry Lyndon (1975) is a three-hour film divided into two parts which in turn depict the title character's rise to wealth and his eventual fall. Even though Kubrick intentionally remains distant from the story's emotional side he somehow keeps the Baroque elegance intact. One could say that is the "most Baroque" film ever made, judging by the set and costume design. The film's reliance on a narrator gives the film a sarcastic tone - especially when you take into consideration that the narrator might not reliable.

The form is astonishing. Nearly every review already mentions it, but I have to say it again: nearly all of the film's shots look like great impressionistic paintings. The gorgeous scenery, delicate compositions and the calm and hypnotizing camera movement create a unique cinematic experience. Kubrick's use of music is flawless yet again - the classical pieces fit perfectly into the film's mood.

Barry Lyndon is a masterpiece in all aspects - one of Kubrick's best films.

Score: 10 out of 10

The Shining

The Shining (1980) is Stanley Kubrick's legendary cinematic adaptation of Stephen King's horror classic. As a family takes care of an isolated hotel while it is closed in the winter, the father (Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrance) gradually becomes insane. As usual, Kubrick's adaptation is harsh and vastly different from the original novel, but in my opinion he only changed it for the better. The buildup is gracious and mind-boggling - and the climax perfectly explodes all the tension the film has gathered up to the point.

Kubrick's inventive camerawork is fascinating: the Steadicam shots build a powerful atmosphere for the film. The long takes and beautiful compositions are also up to Kubrick's high standards: the film is visually awe-inspiring.

Kubrick's The Shining is one of the landmarks of horror in cinema: it delivers on all fronts.

Score: 10 out of 10

Full Metal Jacket

At first I have to admit that I am a huge fan of the director Stanley Kubrick. He was a man who tackled on a lot of genres even though his filmography isn't large. He made two war films: The Paths of Glory (1957) and Full Metal Jacket (1987). While the former didn't focus on the war itself, the latter does exactly that. Full Metal Jacket takes place during the Vietnam War and we see the story unfold through the eyes of Private Joker all the way from training to the actual battlefield.

Kubrick explores the effects of war on soldiers thoroughly - although it isn't that hard to achieve, Kubrick makes a lot of out of the subject. He establishes a wide range of memorable characters effortlessly. The narrative works very well - and the climax is especially great.

Kubrick's form never fails: the long takes, amazing camera drives, spectacular sets/locations and magnificent use of music are precise and spot-on in Full Metal Jacket. My only problem with the film is the use of slow motion. Every notable hit is portrayed in slow motion - the more it is used the more ridiculous it becomes.

As with Kubrick's films in general, Full Metal Jacket is a worthwhile, great film.

Score: 9 out of 10