Outline:
A Unique Vision from a Master Director
Stanley Kubrick is widely regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in cinematic history, and his posthumous release, Eyes Wide Shut, is no exception. Despite being considered one of his greatest works, the film initially caused controversy in Hollywood and beyond. Starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, it also marked the beginning of the end of their real-life marriage. The movie currently holds a Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes with a 76% critics’ approval rating. However, even renowned director Christopher Nolan admitted to feeling “very, very disappointed” after watching it for the first time.
Nolan’s Changing Perspective
In a 2019 Vulture article, Nolan expressed that he was “so excited to see” the gritty and lust-filled movie but left feeling disappointed. However, with time and maturity, he revisited the film and found new meaning in it. The Dunkirk director later reflected that watching Eyes Wide Shut with fresh eyes offered a different experience for a middle-aged man compared to when he watched it as a young man. He described it as “the 2001 of relationship movies,” highlighting its depth and complexity.
A Departure from Kubrick’s Norms
It’s true that Eyes Wide Shut stands out among Kubrick’s other films like 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Shining, Full Metal Jacket, and A Clockwork Orange. These earlier works were rooted in horror, science fiction, and war themes, making Eyes Wide Shut an unexpected choice for the director. Nonetheless, Kubrick co-wrote the script with Frederic Raphael, adapting Arthur Schnitzler’s 1926 novella Dream Story. The film follows Dr. Bill Harford (Tom Cruise) and his wife Alice Harford (Nicole Kidman) as they navigate an erotic game of cat-and-mouse, exploring their desires through a series of physical and emotional encounters.
The Film’s Impact and Legacy
Despite mixed reviews, Eyes Wide Shut managed to attract a significant audience, earning $162.1 million against its $65 million production budget. However, many believe that the version released in theaters isn’t exactly what Kubrick intended. He passed away from a heart attack shortly after submitting his final cut to Warner Bros. While the studio claimed it was the cut Kubrick approved, some post-production changes were made, leaving fans and critics wondering what the final product would have looked like if Kubrick had complete control.
A New Opportunity to Watch
For those who haven’t seen Eyes Wide Shut yet, there’s good news. The film will be available for free streaming on Tubi starting February 2. This presents a new opportunity for audiences to experience Kubrick’s unique vision and perhaps form their own opinions on this controversial yet compelling work.
Final Thoughts
Eyes Wide Shut remains a fascinating entry in Kubrick’s filmography, offering a different perspective from his usual themes. Its blend of romance, mystery, and psychological tension continues to spark debate among viewers and critics alike. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kubrick or simply curious about this lesser-known gem, the chance to stream it for free on Tubi makes it a must-watch.