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 psychological horror film, "The Shining," adapts Stephen King's novel, though with notable departures from the source material. The story centers on Jack Torrance, a writer and recovering alcoholic, who takes a winter caretaker position at the isolated Overlook Hotel with his wife Wendy and their son Danny, who possesses psychic abilities. As they become snowbound, the hotel's sinister influence, coupled with Jack's own demons, pushes him towards violence. The film explores themes of isolation, mental decline, and the cyclical nature of abuse, set against the backdrop of a haunting, expansive hotel.
Known for its deliberate pacing and atmospheric tension, "The Shining" employs distinct cinematography and sound design to create a sense of dread. The film delves into the psychological unraveling of its characters, particularly Jack, as the supernatural elements of the Overlook amplify his struggles with alcoholism, writer's block, and latent aggression. Its enduring legacy comes from its unsettling mood, iconic imagery, and the intense performances from its cast, especially Jack Nicholson.
Why you might be searching for The Shining
People search for "The Shining" due to its iconic status in horror cinema. Memorable details include its setting in an isolated, snow-bound hotel, the psychological unraveling of its main character, and the distinct visual style that has made many scenes instantly recognizable. The film's themes of isolation and psychological distress, combined with its lasting cultural impact, also contribute to its search frequency.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer describes the film as a masterpiece, noting Kubrick's casting choices and his use of pacing and music to build an oppressive atmosphere, and praises the performances of Nicholson, Duval, and the child actor.
Read the full reviewDespite Stephen King's reported dissatisfaction with the adaptation, one critic found the film to be a skillful blend of beauty and terror, employing effective scares and strong acting, though they felt the screenplay itself was only average.
Read the full reviewA reviewer considers "The Shining" among their favorite Stephen King adaptations, appreciating its atmospheric and creepy qualities, but expresses that they were not entirely convinced by Jack Nicholson's character in the early parts of the film.
Read the full reviewA reviewer agrees with Stephen King's criticism that Jack Nicholson's character seemed unstable from the start, which lessened the impact of his descent into madness, but believes this is overshadowed by the film's iconic scenes and its use of musical score and cinematography.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "The Shining" for free with ads on Fandango at Home Free. It's also available to rent or buy on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango At Home. Additionally, you can find it on HBO Max.
No, "The Shining" is not based on a true story. It is a psychological horror film directed by Stanley Kubrick, adapted from Stephen King's 1977 novel of the same name.
The film ends with Jack freezing to death in the hedge maze after pursuing his son Danny and wife Wendy, who escape in a snowcat. The final shot reveals an old photograph from 1921 with Jack Torrance in the center of a party, suggesting he has been part of the Overlook Hotel's history, possibly through reincarnation, as hinted by director Stanley Kubrick.
Yes, "The Shining" is widely considered one of the greatest horror films ever made and has received critical reappraisal since its initial release. It is known for its chilling atmosphere, Jack Nicholson's performance, and its journey into madness.