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Stanley Kubricks Eyes Wide Shut: A Hilarious Disaster or a Thought-Provoking Piece?

February 20, 2025Film4792
Stanley Kubricks Eyes Wide Shut: A Hilarious Disaster or a Thought-Pro

Stanley Kubrick's 'Eyes Wide Shut': A Hilarious Disaster or a Thought-Provoking Piece?

Stanley Kubrick, one of the most renowned and influential filmmakers in cinema history, is often praised for his masterpieces. However, the 1999 film Eyes Wide Shut seems to be a polarizing entry in his catalog. Critics and viewers, including those who are fans of both Kubrick and Tom Cruise, have varying opinions on this film. Some find it a significant work, while others consider it a disappointingly superficial and dull film. In this article, we will delve into the controversy surrounding Eyes Wide Shut and explore why some viewers find it to be one of Kubrick's worst films.

Tom Cruise: A Controversial Figure?

Several viewers point to Tom Cruise's involvement as the primary reason for not enjoying the film. It's true that some are hesitant to watch a movie starring Tom Cruise, which does have a speaking reputation among critics and audiences. However, Cruise's performance in Eyes Wide Shut is not regarded as one of his best. While he can deliver outstanding acting in certain films as evident in Collateral or Tropic Thunder, Eyes Wide Shut fails to capture the same level of emotional depth and gravitas.

Does Tom Cruise's Narrow Range Affect the Film?

Tom Cruise has a narrow range in terms of the types of characters he can effectively portray. Critics argue that his performance in Eyes Wide Shut is passable, but the script and the overall premise of the film are what truly detract from the viewing experience. The personal stakes in the story are portrayed as trivial, which significantly impacts the film's engagement and emotional impact on the audience. Although the film's production quality is praised for its meticulous attention to detail and glossy presentation, it ultimately fails to resonate with many viewers.

Personal Chemistry and Realism

One of the most cited criticisms of the film is the lack of on-screen chemistry between Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, who were married at the time of the film's production. The relationship between these two stars in the film feels contrived and unrealistic, which can be frustrating for viewers. For many, the realism and believability are crucial elements in a romantic drama, and their absence in Eyes Wide Shut can be a significant drawback.

The Musical Score and Standout Feature

Despite the criticism, there are elements that the film is praised for. The musical score by Jocelyn Pook, for instance, is a standout feature. Pook’s method of using Orthodox Christian chanting backwards to create the film’s distinctive soundtrack adds a unique and eerie atmosphere to the movie. This innovative approach to sound design can provide an enriching viewing experience for those who appreciate such artistic choices.

Personal Opinions and Humor

Some viewers have found Eyes Wide Shut to be unexpectedly hilarious, even when it fails to make much sense or engage them emotionally. This subjective reaction is fascinating, given the film's reputation. Viewers who see the film as a comedy argue that its obtuse and self-indulgent nature is what made it humorous, rather than problematic. However, this reaction is not universal, and many others continue to find the film underwhelming and dissatisfying.

Conclusion: A Failed Experiment

While Eyes Wide Shut is not widely regarded as one of Kubrick's best films, it offers a unique perspective on his work. Critics argue that the film is a failed experiment, evident from its obtuseness and superficiality. As for the influence of Tom Cruise, while his performance is not the main issue, the interplay between him and Nicole Kidman and the overall narrative scope contribute to the film's shortcomings.

Key Takeaways:

Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut is often a dividing line among critics and fans.

Tom Cruise's performance is considered average but the script and premise are largely to blame for the film's lack of engagement.

The musical score by Jocelyn Pook is a notable feature of the film.

Despite its flaws, some viewers find the film to be surprisingly humorous, while others continue to view it as a disappointing venture.

In the end, the reception of Eyes Wide Shut highlights the complex relationship between an acclaimed director's vision and viewer interpretation. It serves as a reminder that even artists with a track record of excellence can produce films that are not universally loved.