Stanley Kubrick's 95th Birthday: The Maestro's 5 Must-Watch Classics
Even to this day, these movies continue to be a great source of inspiration for directors.
Today, we celebrate what would have been Stanley Kubrick's 95th birthday. There's no better way to do that than to shine a spotlight on his most exceptional works.
Here are five must-watch movies directed by Stanley Kubrick.
A Clockwork Orange (1971)
Despite the controversy that surrounded its release, A Clockwork Orange remains one of Kubrick's most brilliant and unnerving films. The dystopian tale, brought to life from Anthony Burgess's novel, isn't for the faint-hearted.
Some scenes, like the home invasion or the infamous Ludovico Technique, can be a bit much to stomach. However, the mastery with which Kubrick painted this unsettling portrait makes it impossible to overlook.
Full Metal Jacket (1987)
In the late 80s, Kubrick gifted us with Full Metal Jacket. Even though it arrived in cinemas a year after Oliver Stone's Platoon, it holds its ground as a gripping account of the Vietnam War.
While it might not showcase the vast Vietnamese landscape, Kubrick makes up for it by creating an atmosphere that pulls you right into the soldiers' world.
The Shining (1980)
When it comes to unique horror experiences, The Shining stands tall. Kubrick's innovative use of Steadicam shots, the chilling soundtrack, and iconic imagery are permanently etched into pop culture.
The Shining continues to captivate and terrify audiences in equal measure to this day.
Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)
The genius of Kubrick also lies in his ability to find humor even in the most grim situations, and Dr. Strangelove stands as a testament to that. His take on the absurdities of the Cold War era is both hilarious and devastating.
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Finally, we arrive at what might be Kubrick's most acclaimed masterpiece — 2001: A Space Odyssey. A visual spectacle and a narrative enigma, this film is a testament to Kubrick's vision and innovation. From the dawn of mankind to a deadly mission to Jupiter, the film takes us on a surreal journey.
This film not only earned Kubrick his sole Oscar for its stunning visual effects but also continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.