The best of Stanley Kubrick: five films every fan of classic movies should see -.

Stanley Kubrick is known as one of the most influential and innovative filmmakers in film history. Born in 1928 in New York City, Kubrick began his career as a photographer before switching to filmmaking. His unique visual style, meticulous attention to detail and thought-provoking themes have left an indelible mark on cinema, making him a master of several genres. Kubrick’s films often delve into profound existential questions and explore the darker aspects of humanity and society. His ability to combine technical prowess with deep philosophical inquiry has made his work timeless and continues to provoke discussion and analysis.

In this article, we explore five of Kubrick’s most iconic films, ranked from fifth to first, and discuss their stories, underlying themes and why they have secured their place in the pantheon of cinematic greatness. So let’s waste no more time. This is what we consider Stanley Kubrick’s best.

5. Dr. Strangelove or: how I learned to stop fretting and love the bomb (1964)

In Dr. Strangelove, a dissolute American general, Jack D. Ripper, orders a bombing of the Soviet Union, believing that a Soviet conspiracy is contaminating America’s bodily fluids. The film follows the frantic efforts of the U.S. government, including President Merkin Muffley and the eccentric Dr. Strangelove, to prevent a nuclear holocaust while dealing with the catastrophic consequences of Ripper’s actions.

This satirical black comedy critiques the absurdities of the Cold War and the uncertainty of nuclear policy. Kubrick uses black humor to expose the irrationality and incompetence of military and political leaders in the face of existential threats. The film’s biting commentary on the futility of war and the madness of mutually assured destruction remains relevant today, making it a prescient exploration of power and paranoia. Through its clever writing style and memorable performances, particularly Peter Sellers’ portrayal of multiple characters, Dr. Strangelove highlights the absurdity of human behavior in the face of potential destruction, and invites us to question the logic of warfare and the fragility of civilization.

4. Full Metal Jacket (1987)

Full Metal Jacket follows a group of U.S. Marine Corps recruits from their grueling boot camp training under the sadistic Gunnery Sergeant Hartman to their experiences in Vietnam during the war. The film provides a stark depiction of the dehumanizing effects of military training and the brutal reality of combat, as seen through the eyes of Private Joker, who struggles to maintain his humanity amidst the chaos.

This film is a gripping exploration of the war in Vietnam and its impact on the soldiers involved. Kubrick critiques the dehumanizing processes of the military and shows how brutal training robs recruits of their individuality and moral compass. The film’s split narrative structure – between boot camp and the battlefield – highlights the transformation of ordinary individuals into soldiers and raises questions about identity, morality and the consequences of war. Through its fearless depiction of violence and the psychological toll of conflict, Full Metal Jacket serves as a powerful commentary on the nature of war and the fragility of human dignity in the face of institutional brutality.

3. A clockwork orange (1971)

I remember watching this movie in high school psychology class. In A Clockwork Orange, Alex DeLarge (Malcolm McDowell) is a delinquent in a dystopian future that revels in violence and chaos. After he is arrested, he undergoes experimental treatment designed to condition him against violent impulses. As he reintegrates into society, however, Alex finds himself helpless and victimized, leading to a profound exploration of free will and the nature of evil.

This film is a provocative examination of free will, morality and the consequences of state control. Kubrick challenges us to ask uncomfortable questions about the nature of violence and the ethical implications of using psychological conditioning to change behavior. The film’s controversial themes, stylized violence and striking imagery make for a disturbing yet thought-provoking experience. A Clockwork Orange invites us to ponder the balance between social order and individual freedom, leaving us to wonder if true morality can be imposed or if it must come from within. Kubrick’s bold storytelling and unique aesthetic have made this film a landmark in film history.

2. The Shine (1980)

I am Stephen King’s biggest fan (without becoming completely Annie Wilkes), but I am also a huge Kubrick admirer. So it really stings to see that Stephen King is not a fan of this masterpiece. Honestly, the book is one of my all-time favorites! But let’s face it, the movie definitely stands its ground as well! Kubrick’s film follows Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson), a writer who takes a winter job as a caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel. He moves there with his wife, Wendy (Shelley Duvall), and his psychic son, Danny (Danny Lloyd), who begins to have gruesome visions of the hotel’s dark past. As Jack descends into madness under the influence of the hotel’s supernatural powers, the family becomes embroiled in a terrifying struggle for survival.

The Shining is a masterful blend of psychological horror and supernatural elements, exploring themes of isolation, madness and the fragility of the human spirit. Kubrick delves into the complexities of family dynamics, addiction and the impact of trauma, creating an atmosphere of dread that pervades the film. The hotel itself becomes a character, representing the oppressive weight of the past and the darkness in Jack’s psyche. Kubrick’s meticulous craftsmanship, from the haunting visuals to the unsettling score, contributes to the film’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest horror films of all time. Ultimately, The Shining invites us to question the nature of reality and the fine line between sanity and madness.

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) 2.

I would have loved to have inserted the film’s opening score as a drum roll for this top spot! In 2001: A Space Odyssey, a mysterious monolith is discovered on the moon, causing a spacecraft manned by two astronauts, Dr. Dave Bowman and Dr. Frank Poole, and a supercomputer called HAL 9000, to embark on a journey to Jupiter to discover its origin. As the crew interacts with HAL, the film explores themes of evolution, artificial intelligence and humanity’s place in the universe.

This groundbreaking film is often considered one of the greatest achievements in cinema. Kubrick uses stunning visuals, innovative special effects and a minimalist narrative structure to explore profound philosophical questions about existence, technology and the future of humanity. The film’s iconic images, particularly the Star Gate sequence, transcend the traditional narrative and invite us to engage with the themes on a deeper level. 2001: A Space Odyssey is a meditation on the evolution of humanity, the potential dangers of artificial intelligence and the mysteries of the cosmos. Its ambiguous ending and thought-provoking ideas continue to inspire and challenge us, securing its place as a timeless classic that reshaped the science fiction genre.

And that’s all for today! Stanley Kubrick’s films are a testament to his genius as a filmmaker and storyteller. His exploration of complex themes, innovative visual style and relentless pursuit of perfection have left an indelible mark on the film world. From the existential musings of 2001: A Space Odyssey to the haunting terror of The Shining, Kubrick’s work invites us to engage with the darker aspects of human nature and the uncertainties of existence. His legacy as a visionary filmmaker endures, inspiring generations of filmmakers and cinephiles to reflect on the profound questions of life, art and the human condition.

Now we’d love to hear your experiences with Stanley Kubrick’s work! Which of his films do you think are the best? Would you rearrange the list or add others? Do you have any memorable moments from his films? We can’t wait to read your opinions in the comments!