The Shining - Review

"REDRUM" – A review of The Shining. 

One of my favourite ever modules I studied during my English Literature degree was Gothic Literature. I love horror, I love the gothic, I love that kind of fear and adrenaline you get from a truly spine-chilling story, similar to that of a roller-coaster when you know you're safe really, but you're still suitably freaked out. I remember reading over the literature that was included in the module and being thrilled to see that not only was the book version of The Shining included, but the film version was too – this is one of my favourite stories of all time, and I love the book and the film for different reasons.

Released in 1980, The Shining was directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on the novel by Stephen King. The story follows Jack Torrance, played perfectly by Jack Nicholson, as he becomes the caretaker at the remote, isolated Overlook Hotel. Hoping the job will give him the time he needs to write, he moves in with his wife, Wendy (Shelley Duvall) and son, Danny (Danny Lloyd), along with the hope of a fresh start for the family. There's something not quite right about The Overlook, though…the family are meant to be alone, so who are the twins? Who is the woman in the bath? What's wrong with that hedge?

What's wrong with this hotel?

This is a film which brilliantly builds tension, making you feel every ounce of dread the family is feeling. The psychological terror grows and builds as the horrors become ever more present and ever more dangerous, and as Jack himself becomes more and more of a threat. If you've read the book, you'll spot some differences; the film is more psychological than supernatural, and Jack appears unstable from the start of the film rather than the slightly more sympathetic character in the book. This is one of a few reasons that King himself didn't actually like the film – yet I love both. Yes, they're different, yes, the ending is tweaked and characters come across differently, but they set out to do different things, and I think that both the book and the film achieved exactly what they set out to do.

King didn't like Jack Nicholson's casting, but I found him absolutely remarkable, his descent into madness being absolutely terrifying yet also captivating to watch. Shelley Duvall feels genuine in her kindness and vulnerability, and you truly feel her struggle as she does all she can to protect her young son and herself. Young Danny Lloyd is perfect – his fear is palpable and his abilities believable, adding to the tension and emotional stakes of the plot.

The Overlook really is a character in its own right thanks to Kubrick's visual style. Long, winding shots of seemingly endless hotel corridors, the bold use of colour, the opening shot of the family travelling to such a remote area and the clever framing all add to the unsettling and mysterious mood of the film. The sound and score are remarkable too; the music is haunting, adding to the suspense, the sound of Danny's little tricycle echoing down the halls adds to the feeling of solitude, and yet the use of silence is powerful too – in fact, there are times when I think the silence makes me more nervous and on edge than the music.

I truly love this film. University gave me an amazing reason to rewatch it, yet I never really need a reason; I've seen it countless times and enjoy it just as much with every rewatch. The direction is brilliant, the performances are iconic, and the style of the film is flawless. This is a memorable and chilling watch which I cannot recommend enough – whether you're a fan of the book or just enjoy a good scare, this one is certainly for you.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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