“The Shining,” directed by Stanley Kubrick in 1980 and based on Stephen King’s 1977 novel of the same name, is a film with a mixed reputation. The story draws inspiration from the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO, although filming occurred at the Timberline Lodge and Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire, England, for most interior shots.
Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrance is undeniably outstanding, with his facial expressions capturing the descent into madness brilliantly. At the tender age of five, Danny Lloyd delivers a phenomenal performance as Danny Torrance, imbuing the character with genuine emotion. In contrast, Shelley Duvall’s portrayal of Wendy Torrance falls short, as her character often appears stereotypically as a damsel in distress.
“The Shining” is a peculiar film, featuring eerie elements rather than outright horror. Some argue that the movie’s ability to manipulate the viewer’s imagination is what makes it a horror classic, but not everyone may share that perspective. Additionally, the film includes moments that defy logic, like random occurrences in various rooms as Wendy navigates the hallways and Jack’s interactions with a bartender in an empty bar.
While the beginning and middle of the movie effectively depict Jack’s gradual descent into madness, “The Shining” is a lengthy and deliberately slow-paced film. If you seek constant action, this movie may not be your cup of tea. Despite its shortcomings, I would still recommend watching “The Shining” at least once to form your own opinion.
