Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, based on the Stephen King novel, is a movie that I’ve wanted to see for ages. “It’s a classic!” I was told. But since I don’t always make time for movies, I didn’t know if I’d ever get around to watching it. Hence, The List! I added the task of watching The Shining to my list a long time ago. I’ve spoken about it with friends for almost two years, and about a year ago, I bought the DVD. Well, last night, a group of us finally got together and watched it.
In my opinion, it’s quite creepy, even after being 33 years old or so. The high-pitched sounds and eerie music found in late 70’s / early 80’s horror flicks still make me on edge. The scariest movies aren’t about ghosts, or aliens, or things that are clearly computer animated. The ones that frighten me usually relate to what humans are capable of doing to each other. In this case, a father (Jack Nicholson) is affected by the isolation of being the curator of a hotel during the winter. Evil forces and ghosts are at work too and have a tremendous influence on him, and he descends into madness. This does not go well for his wife (Shelly Duvall) and his son (Danny Lloyd). Scariness ensues.
All in all, I’m really glad I watched it, and I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn’t seen it! Even if it’s not your cup-of-tea, it’s a classic! As for my list… “Watch the original version of The Shining”… you’re off the list!
HIKES & HAMSTRINGS 