The Shining (1980)
Jack Torrance accepts a caretaker job at the Overlook Hotel, where he, along with his wife Wendy and their son Danny, must live isolated from the rest of the world for the winter. But they aren't prepared for the madness that lurks within.
Details
Budget
$19,000,000
Rating
8/10 (17783 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Warner Bros. Pictures, Peregrine, Hawk Films, The Producer Circle Co.
About The Shining
Stanley Kubrick's 1980 adaptation of Stephen King's novel, "The Shining," delves into psychological horror within the isolated setting of the Overlook Hotel. The film follows Jack Torrance, a writer and caretaker, and his family, who become trapped by a snowstorm. This isolation, combined with the hotel's unsettling history, drives Jack into delusion and violence.
The narrative explores themes of loneliness, alcoholism, domestic violence, and writer's block through a suspenseful and often surreal lens. Kubrick's use of atmosphere and pacing contribute to the film's unsettling mood, distinguishing it as a significant work in the psychological thriller genre. Despite initial mixed reactions from some, including author Stephen King, the film has achieved cult classic status.
Key elements include telepathy and premonition, which play into the son Danny's developing psychic abilities. The film’s tension builds through a gradual descent into madness, rather than relying on jump scares. Its lasting impact is attributed to its distinct visual style and sustained feeling of unease.
Why you might be searching for The Shining
People often search for "The Shining" due to its iconic horror imagery and memorable scenes. The film's psychological depth and ambiguous ending also make it a topic of discussion and re-evaluation. Many recall the distinctive hotel setting, specific visual gags and motifs, and its classic status within the horror genre.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer describes the film as a masterpiece, noting Kubrick's precise casting, as well as the effective use of timing and music to create a tense atmosphere, specifically commending Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, and Danny Lloyd's performances.
Read the full reviewA reviewer comments that despite author Stephen King's dissatisfaction with the adaptation, the film gained critical and commercial success, calling it a skillful blend of beauty and terror that employs effective scares and strong acting, though they found the screenplay to be average.
Read the full reviewThis film stands out as a top Stephen King adaptation for one reviewer, though not a top Kubrick film for them. They found the atmosphere to be amazing and creepy, but did not fully connect with Jack Nicholson's portrayal early in the film, considering it a solid, enjoyable watch rather than a classic.
Read the full reviewOne review highlights that the film demonstrates how musical score and cinematography are able to elevate a movie significantly. The reviewer agreed with Stephen King's observation that Jack Nicholson's character appeared unhinged from the start, but found this forgivable due to the film's iconic scenes.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
No, *The Shining* is not based on a true story. It's a psychological horror film from 1980, adapted from Stephen King's 1977 novel of the same name.
In the climax of *The Shining*, Danny escapes his father, Jack, in the hedge maze, leaving Jack to freeze to death. The film concludes with a shot of a 1921 photograph from the Overlook Hotel's July 4th Ball, showing Jack Torrance in the center, suggesting he has either been absorbed by the hotel or is a reincarnation of a past guest.
*The Shining* is often considered one of the greatest horror films ever made and was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry. While initial reactions to its release were mixed, it has since been critically reappraised and holds an 84% positive review on Rotten Tomatoes.