The Shining
released 1980

“The Shining” is an American supernatural, psychological horror film produced and directed by Stanley Kubrik. The screenplay was written by Stanley Kubrik and Diane Johnson and is based on Stephen King´s 1977 novel also called “The Shining”. It stars Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd and Scatman Crothers.

The story begins when the character of Jack Torrance (played by Jack Nicholson) arrives at the Overlook Hotel with his wife Wendy Torrance (played by Shelley Duvall) and son Danny Torrance (played by Danny Lloyd).  In the winter, the Overloook Hotel is cut off from civilization. The heavy snows and cold weather block the roads and make it impossible to stay outside for long. Jack takes the job to isolate himself so he can write a book.

The scenery of the hotel, although isolated, is beautiful and with enough food to eat the beginning of the film has the feel of a family going on vacation. We later learn that the hotel was built on a Native American burial site and the previous caretaker went bezerk and commited murder. They called this “cabin fever”.  There is also an evil presence in room 237 which exerts influence on the whole property and later Jack. Danny is psychic and learns a lot of the hotel´s sordid past.

This movie is a classic horror film with a great story. It isn´t a film of senseless gore or violence with a predictable story development. It combines unique story elements to craft an intriguing tale. I highly recommend “The Shining” even for those that don´t like horror because the story is excellent.

(Commentary by  www.ink2quill.com )
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