In this discussion, Justin Boyd, a talented television writer known for his work on Fear the Walking Dead, delves into Stanley Kubrick's enigmatic film, Eyes Wide Shut. They explore its unique holiday setting and its status as an 'end of history' work. The conversation dives into Kubrick's cinematic legacy, contrasting the sources' Austro-Hungarian roots with a dreamlike New York atmosphere. The intriguing development story of the film and the obsessive nature of Kubrick's filmmaking process also take center stage, revealing the complexities behind this iconic piece.
The film 'Eyes Wide Shut' reflects Kubrick's unique artistic vision, showcasing his obsessive perfectionism amidst critiques of its narrative coherence and character development.
The adaptation's Austro-Hungarian roots juxtaposed with a dreamlike New York setting emphasize themes of intimacy and detachment in human relationships.
Deep dives
Kubrick's Final Film and Its Reception
Stanley Kubrick's 'Eyes Wide Shut' stands as a controversial final film, with varying opinions on its quality and significance. Some view it as a masterpiece, capturing the complexities of human relationships and societal norms, while others argue it feels incomplete or out of sync with contemporary filmmaking trends. After its screening for Hollywood executives, discussions of cuts arose, especially given Kubrick's untimely death shortly after, leading to speculation about the film's editing decisions. The presence of digitally altered scenes, meant to obscure explicit content, raises questions about Kubrick's original vision and whether he would have approved such changes.
Visual Aesthetics and Narrative Style
The film's visual style is marked by a certain elegance, yet it also exhibits a flatness that some liken to a television production. This stylistic choice, whether intentional or not, contributes to a perceived detachment in the characters and their relationships, a hallmark of Kubrick's work. Critics have noted the peculiar rhythm of dialogue and performances, suggesting that the characters represent broader social ideas rather than being fully fleshed-out individuals. This combination of intimacy in theme and coolness in execution results in a complex viewing experience that challenges conventional understanding of love and desire.
Obsession in Kubrick's Cinematic Legacy
Kubrick's obsessive approach to filmmaking has been a point of intrigue, influencing how he directed actors and shaped narratives. His method often involved repeated takes to achieve a perfect performance, a technique that came under scrutiny in the context of evolving industry standards regarding actor treatment and set environments. The tension between artistic perfectionism and the psychological stress imposed on performers highlights the complexities of creative genius during the 20th century. As the conversation shifts, it is crucial to explore the roots of 'Eyes Wide Shut' in the context of its source material, revealing further insights into Kubrick's thematic preoccupations.
Danny once again chats with television writer and producer Justin Boyd, this time to examine Stanley Kubrick's 1999 film Eyes Wide Shut. Besides its holiday setting, the two discuss the film's place in Kubrick's oeuvre, its standing as an "end of history" piece of art, Kubrick as a true "20th century man", the Austro-Hungarian setting of the source novella vs. the dreamlike New York of the adaptation, and more.