Review of 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) by Stefan G — 21 Feb 2015

Epic in terms of scope and vision, Stanley Kubrick's sci-fi classic was not so much a film as a work of art. At times, the narrative can get a little cryptic, but on the whole, it was very unique and unfailingly engaging.

I thoroughly enjoyed not only the cold, futuristic sci-fi atmosphere, but also the other elements, such as the famous "The Dawn of Man" act, and the ending, which was mysterious, surreal, and yet very captivating and exciting.

The performances were nearly flawless, and I get the feeling that each character has the same significance. There wasn't one corny moment to be found, and the film certainly lacked all trace of slimy pretension.

The film's greatest strength is its production values and its visual effects. The film itself looked gorgeous, but it's the special effects that communicated a kind of artistic value and otherworldly style that raised the bar for future sci-fi films.

Even today, this film is unlike any other film you may ever see in your lifetime, and it may be impossible to top such calibre. It's this timeless quality that I admire so much, but it's the film's atmosphere that truly drew me in.