This chapter features a lively discussion on the film 'The Shining,' led by the hosts and a guest with a shared history in the podcast. They reflect on their personal experiences with the film, evolving perceptions, and the artistic choices made by Kubrick, emphasizing both emotional depth and technical brilliance. The chapter also touches on broader themes of horror within human experience, drawing connections to existential concepts and the nuances of cinematic storytelling.
Cornell philosopher David Shoemaker joins us for a long winding journey up to the Overlook Hotel, a DEEP dive on Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. We tackle all the big questions - is the hotel truly haunted? What if anything does it symbolize? Why are there two Gradys and two sets of daughters? How does the filmmaking – and the Steadicam in particular - amplify our sense of dread? Does Jack shine too? How does he get out of the storage closet? Is Shelly Duval’s performance actually brilliant? What the fuck is up with Bill? Should the Overlook have included a land acknowledgment? And lots more. Come listen to us, forever and ever and ever….
David Shoemaker's website [sites.google.com]
Wisecracks by David Shoemaker [amazon.com afilliate link]
Review of Wisecracks by Kieran Setiya [atlantic.com]
The Shining [wikipedia.org]