The Shining - Movie Review

When I finished watching The Shining for the first time (a long time ago), I declared that I have just seen the stupidest horror-movie ever. For most parts I found the super-natural elements of the film poorly conceived and with many untied ends. Though it was fun to watch Nicholson going bonkers (Which always is),  at certain points his performance may have been tipping the scale towards ridiculousness.

Years later, somehow I have taken quite a liking to this movie. I don't know what exactly made me change my mind about this movie. I am still confused as to  the reason for Jack's breakdown into a homicidal maniac - if it was solitude or something supernatural. I guess although the reasons are not explained, the way the whole event unravels is what appeals to the audience. Once you stop taking facts at face value and being overly judgemental, The Shining will definitely prove to be a well-crafted, intelligent  movie.

 Granted it doesn't make you jump off your chair like many slit-throating slasher movies. But the mastery with which Kubrick builds up the suspense and a certain sense of dread, from start to the end; leave us with an experience that is unsettling as anything I have seen on screen. Though the movie has its fair share of flaws and pitfalls, it draws strength from the unquestionable craft of its director, impeccable cinematography, fierce energy of Jack Nicholson and then there is of course that eeeeery soundtrack.

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