Episode 36 & 37: Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining (1980)
Rotten Tomato Score: 83%
Ever wonder what makes "The Shining" not just a great movie but a study in psychological horror? Join us and our special guest TJ, as we dissect Stanley Kubrick's haunting masterpiece. Delve beyond Jack Nicholson's iconic performance and the chilling corridors of the Overlook Hotel, as we explore the film's divergence from Stephen King's novel, the complexities of its characters, and the innovative cinematic techniques that have left audiences unsettled for decades.
Prepare to re-examine the most memorable lines and scenes that have cemented "The Shining" as a horror classic. Our discussion takes a deep look at Jack's menacing transformation, Wendy's struggle with keeping her family together, and the unnerving bar scene that suggests a supernatural influence. We debate the authenticity of the characters' portrayals, the true antagonist of the story, and the unsettling racial undertones that simmer beneath the surface. And yes, we'll address that improvised "Here's Johnny" moment and what Nicholson's real-life skills lent to the axe-wielding scene.
Then, we'll immerse you in the film's atmospheric horror through its masterful sound design. From the rhythm of Danny's tricycle to the meticulous creation of the blood elevator scene, we reflect on how Kubrick's relentless pursuit of perfection has resonated through time. With a nod to the film's impact on a viewer's psyche—be it the eerie presence of the Grady twins or the symbolism behind the iconic shots—we guarantee a fresh perspective on a film that continues to shine in the annals of horror cinema. So, tune in, and let's unravel the enigma of "The Shining" together.
Feel the emotional weight of Jack's nonsensical manuscript and witness the bewildering presence of a character in a bear costume, as we tackle controversies and debate whether Nicholson's iconic portrayal has withstood the test of time.
Unsettling and provocative, our exchange heats up when dissecting the film's supernatural elements - are they apparitions or figments of a fractured psyche? We wrestle with the concept of reality in Kubrick's masterpiece, pondering Danny's 'shining' and the cryptic happenings of room 237. Additionally, we sink our teeth into the adaptation process, the meticulous effort behind simple repetitive phrases, and the psychological implications of a 1920s ballroom hallucination, inviting you to consider the artistry that has cemented "The Shining" within horror lore.
Round off this deep exploration with us as we share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, like Kubrick's unorthodox methods to push actors to their limits, and the irony of a set fire that mirrors an unused ending. Each chapter of our discussion is a turn in the hedge maze, revealing both on-screen terror and the real-life dedication behind creating such a spine-chilling experience. So, if you're eager to look beyond the haunted surfaces, join our journey into the ambiguous, the psychological, and the metaphysical aspects of "The Shining" – a film that continues to captivate and terrify audiences alike.
Plot Summary:
A family heads to an isolated hotel for the winter where a sinister presence influences the father into violence, while his psychic son sees horrific forebodings from both past and future. (Taken from IMDb)
Watchability Scale
We all ranked the film at 8 on the Watchability Scale.
Links
REDRUM - By Pogo (YouTube)
There Are No Ghosts (YouTube)
25 Facts About Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” (Mental Floss)
20 Fascinating Facts About 'The Shining' We Bet You Didn't Know (Good Housekeeping)