This is a biblical epic, but not on Hollywood's terms. There are no allusions to Jesus similar to Ben-Hur or monumental miracles performed only by God. Rather, it is biblical due to the film acting as a religious text for the religion of Agnosticism. It is neutral in its questioning atmosphere and tranquil facade that prevails in Space. There is an open sparsity which is related to the viewers with the vast barren landscapes and the wide angle shots used frequently. The film does not eagerly provoke which is successful in allowing the viewers to interpret it freely. The meaning behind the infamous black rectangle is unexplained and therefore after any viewing your mind reels with abstract concepts. 2001's serenity only increases the tension as a disastrous problem is surely oncoming...
I watched this film for a second time whilst multi-tasking and therefore I could only really listen. However this experience was just as magical as watching because the sounds that are essential for creating an atmosphere were amplified, especially the rhythmic breathing. In most films you almost forget actors breath as it is rarely heard. Furthermore the soundtrack of Johann Strauss' Blue Danube and most interesting choice of all: Also Sprach Zarathustra. This was a piece inspired by an epic poem and the philosophical writings of Friedrich Nietzsche. Immediately a transcendence mystifies this film - questions only too deep for a 15 year old to be answering ;).
Hal (9000). The Heuristically programed Algorithmic computer who is the central nervous system of the shuttle and the expedition. The word algorithm sets me on edge at once and start becoming uneasy about our future. Artificial intelligence is starting to creep in, and discreetly altering the way we live our lives. We are powerless to stop this. It seems as if we are living in the aged, foretold in 2001 yet we are obviously a little late. This is merely the beginning. However, to fear is not correct, for Hal is not scary, he is not your average evil antagonist. Artificial Intelligence 'mimics' human emotion and therefore Kubrik brings us to empathize with a computer - this is the scariest prospect. Hal is paranoid, scared, hiding behind the pretense of perfection, which is something us humans are culprits of too.
'open the pod bay doors Hal'
... is one of the most haunting lines in cinema I have ever heard.
2001's design is flawless. The futuristic concepts are scarily realistic. Was Steve Jobs inspired by the film for his version of the tablet? How Kubrik has constructed the film is beyond me. I would advise you go read a film journal or the Guardian if you want to find out.
The design for the space ships are similar to Star Wars however one must remember that Star Wars was 9 years later. Star Trek had no way near the complexity, scale and funding that 2001 must of had yet again, but the Enterprise does have a comparable design. The interior design of the landing bays seem sterile and 'electrically' incandescent but beautifully modern and not at all dated. The minimalistic white makes the decks glow. Despite this I do love some of the 60s dress styles that themselves were inspired by the futuristic space age look. Furthermore, the red Djinn chairs epitomise modernism. Even their namesake can be interpreted '
Islamic spirit capable of changing shape' to tie in with the film's spirituality.
This is the definitive Science Fiction film. It confuses, delights and certainly cathartic. The anonymnity of the characters is a relief from the bombardment of plot, character traits and action that is concurrent in the Blockbuster industry today.
Stanley Kubrik is revolutionary.
*****
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