50th Anniversary Review of Kubrick’s ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’

Rohat Berk Kartal
Sep 4, 2018 · 3 min read

I waited months for the right time to watch 2001: A Space Odyssey directed by Stanley Kubrick. Finally, last friday, I watched it. I wasn’t sure what to expect but as a humble sci-fi fan, I found myself in a position where I had to discuss the movie or at least write down my thoughts and feelings here. That is why now I am writing this article and analyzing the movie through different criterias as mentioned below:

Plot: The movie is based on the same titled book of infamous sci-fi author Arthur C. Clarke. This movie is considered as an inspiration to many of today’s science fiction movies and it is about the adventure of humanity throughout the years. Although the story mostly takes place in an age where men are on an unclear space mission (taking place in the year of 2001), the movie starts with the sequence called “Dawn of the Man” where apes display very basic humanlike actions and learn to use tools as a weapon.

Theme: The most challenging part of the movie is the main idea behind it. In a kind of funny way, that is also another reason this movie is so incredible. The movie seems to be giving us the notion of a humankind throughout the millions of years. Evolution, birth, death, technology, earth, war and artificial intelligence may be roughly considered as the subjects to take into consideration for viewers while and after watching the film to come up with a conclusion and a good understanding of the theme. Also, it is wise to keep in mind that one should not be too optimistic in terms of figuring out the idea and explanation behind the story since Kubrick and Clarke just wanted to raise awareness to subjects mentioned above. Hence, as the author once said “If you understand ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ completely, we failed. We wanted to raise far more questions than we answered.”

Acting: Acting in this movie is sufficient. Needless to say for a movie shot in late 60’s, camera angles prevent the audience from focusing on the performance of the actors. On the other hand, the main characters Dave and Frank, did a decent job to reflect their role and character to satisfy the viewer. On an another serious note, the voice of HAL 9000 Computer, to me is the most suitable character or character related performance in the movie. The level and pitch of Hal’s voice is perfect.

Score: Music pieces used in this movie is breathtaking. There are literally minutes where the audience find themselves in front of a black screen with drums and classical music playing in the background without actually viewing any graphical images. Considering the time the movie was shot, neither the movie industry nor the viewers were ready for such thing. Yet Kubrick proves once again why he is one of the most revolutionary and extraordinary person that ever took part in the film industry.

Cinematography: The importance and greatness of this movie in terms of cinematography is indescribable. There are so many amazing scenes and camera angels make it difficult for you to believe that actually this masterpiece was filmed half a century ago. The space, empty lands, space ships (external and internal shots), lights in space are filmed so amazingly symmetrical and in proportion. It almost feels like each and every moment of the movie is a mind blowing exhibition on space exploration.

I am fully aware that my comments above are mainly positive and encouraging for the reader of this article to watch the movie if you still haven’t seen it. I have this feeling that I should warn you that you may love it or hate it. This is not a movie for everyone and I respect for all opinions. Yet the movie is definitely worth seeing and inspiring in so many ways.

Line of the film: “I’m sorry Dave. I’m afraid I can’t do that.”

Rohat Berk Kartal

Written by

Uncle, lawyer, basketballer, thinker, traveller — Istanbul

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