2001: A Space Odyssey

Original title:	2001: A Space Odyssey
Director:	Stanley Kubrick
Release:	Cinema
Running time:	139 minutes
Release date:	03 april 1698
Rating:

At the dawn of mankind, in the African desert, a tribe of primates is repeatedly attacked by a rival band vying for a water source. The discovery of a black monolith inspires the leader of the beleaguered apes to make an unprecedented and decisive move. Brandishing a bone, he went on the attack and slaughtered his opponents. The first instrument was born.In 2001, four million years later, a spaceship moves in lunar orbit to the languorous rhythm of the Beau Danube Bleu. On board, Dr. Heywood Floyd is secretly investigating the discovery of a black monolith emitting strange signals towards Jupiter. Eighteen months later, astronauts David Bowman and Frank Poole are on their way to Jupiter aboard the Discovery. The two men go about their daily chores under the control of HAL 9000, an exceptional computer with intelligence and speech. However, HAL, undoubtedly more human than his masters, is beginning to show signs of worry: what's the point of this mission, and what might we discover on Jupiter?

Mulder's Review

Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey is an unassailable masterpiece of cinematic innovation and exploration, a film that not only transcended the limits of conventional storytelling, but also left an indelible mark on the very essence of what cinema can achieve. Released in 1968, this visionary work has stood the test of time, captivating audiences with its intricate tapestry of images, soundscapes and thought-provoking themes.

The film's opening sequence, a ballet of prehistoric apes discovering the power of tools and violence, sets the stage for a narrative that spans millennia and spans the cosmos. Kubrick's genius lies in his ability to weave links between disparate eras, creating a tapestry that connects the dawn of humanity to its potential evolution beyond the stars. When the film shifts to a technologically advanced future, the attention to detail is simply astounding. From the meticulous description of space travel to the hauntingly beautiful lunar landscapes, every frame testifies to Kubrick's dedication to visual storytelling.

Perhaps one of the film's greatest achievements is its treatment of space itself. Kubrick's decision to present the vacuum of space as an eerily silent expanse is not only a nod to scientific accuracy, but also a powerful metaphor for the isolation and insignificance of human existence in the face of the immensity of the universe. The weightlessness of space travel, achieved through innovative camera techniques and choreography, adds an extra layer of realism and immersion, drawing viewers into the unknown with unrivalled authenticity.

At the heart of the film's exploration of technology and its implications is the enigmatic HAL 9000, a sentient AI whose calm demeanor conceals a sinister purpose. HAL's gradual descent into madness and rebellion against his human companions serves as a warning of the ethical and existential challenges posed by artificial intelligence. At a time when artificial intelligence continues to evolve, the film's depiction of the interaction between man and technology remains profoundly relevant, echoing contemporary debates on the ethics and control of artificial intelligence.

Beyond its images and technical prowess, 2001: A Space Odyssey is an intellectual and philosophical odyssey. The story questions the nature of human existence, the possibility of extraterrestrial influence and the mysteries of the cosmos. As the film hurtles towards its enigmatic climax, symbolized by the iconic Star Child, it confronts the viewer with the limits of human understanding and the immensity of space and time. The fusion of image and sound, with Richard Strauss's Also sprach Zarathustra and Johann Strauss's Blue Danube Waltz, adds an emotional depth that resonates long after the credits have rolled.

Kubrick's deliberate use of ambiguity throughout the film invites the audience to engage in a collaborative act of interpretation. The deliberate gaps in the narrative canvas allow for a multiplicity of readings and discussions, sparking debates about the film's meanings, symbolism and overarching themes. This openness, far from detracting from the experience, enriches it, allowing each viewer to become an active participant in unravelling the film's mysteries.

Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey is a timeless testament to the unlimited potential of cinema. Its revolutionary visual effects, innovative storytelling and profound exploration of humanity's place in the universe have cemented its status as a cultural touchstone. The film remains a must-see for cinephiles, sci-fi enthusiasts and anyone looking for a transformative cinematic experience that challenges the mind and stirs the soul. As we continue to explore the frontiers of space and cinema, 2001: A Space Odyssey shines like a guiding star, reminding us of the limitless horizons that lie ahead.

2001: A Space Odyssey
Directed by Stanley Kubrick
Screenplay by Stanley Kubrick, Arthur C. Clarke
Produced by Stanley Kubrick
Starring Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood
Cinematography : Geoffrey Unsworth
Edited by Ray Lovejoy
Production company : Stanley Kubrick Productions
Distributed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Release dates : 2 April 1968 (Uptown Theater), , 3 April 1968 (United States), September 27 1968 (France)
Running time : 139 minutes

seen on october 11 2001 (video)

Mulder's Mark: