View from the Overlook: Crafting 'The Shining' (2007)

View from the Overlook: Crafting 'The Shining' Poster

An overview of the making of, and a look at the continuing popularity of, Stanley Kubrick's The Shining.

Summary
"View from the Overlook: Crafting 'The Shining'" is an informative 2007 documentary that checks out the development process of Stanley Kubrick's renowned horror movie, "The Shining". The documentary consists of interviews with key members of the film's crew, using a behind-the-scenes look into the making of this cult classic.

The Making of 'The Shining'
The documentary begins with the beginning of the task, detailing how Kubrick chose to adjust Stephen King's novel into a film. It discusses the director's option to differ the novel's plot and instead incorporate his own concepts, which led to the development of a distinct narrative that significantly differed from its original source.

The documentary talks about the extensive pre-production process, with Kubrick diligently planning every information of the film. For example, it checks out the creation of the film sets, stressing the importance of the Overlook Hotel as a character in itself.

Cast and Crew Insights
"View from the Overlook" includes individual anecdotes and insights from key members of the cast and crew. Jack Nicholson, who played the primary role of Jack Torrance, shares his experience working with Kubrick and the development of his character. Similarly, Shelley Duvall, who represented Wendy Torrance, speaks openly about the pressures of shooting her mentally requiring role and Kubrick's ruthless pursuit of excellence.

The film also generates perspectives from the team. Cinematographer John Alcott and production designer Roy Walker share their experiences dealing with the film's iconic visual aspects. They delve into how they achieved the film's sensible feel and cooling environment using ingenious cinematography and set styles.

In addition, the documentary highlights the group's efforts to craft the movie's remarkable scenes, such as the maze chase and the "Here's Johnny!" moment.

Stanley Kubrick: The Directorial Genius
A significant part of the documentary is dedicated to Stanley Kubrick's distinct directorial style. It represents how Kubrick was deeply involved in every element of the film's production, frequently pushing his actors and team to their limitations to draw out their finest performances.

Kubrick's child, Katharina Kubrick, provides an expert view into her dad's work ethic, his attention to information, and his relentless commitment to his craft. His perfectionistic nature frequently led to numerous retakes of scenes, showing his unrelenting pursuit of cinematic quality.

The documentary likewise goes over how Kubrick used ground-breaking strategies such as Steadicam for the first time in cinema history on a big scale to produce a spooky, unsettling atmosphere.

Cultural Impact
Towards completion, "View from the Overlook: Crafting 'The Shining'" addresses the film's significant cultural impact. It reflects on how "The Shining" changed the landscape of the scary genre, positioning it as an art type instead of simply a medium for inexpensive thrills. The movie is applauded not just for its terrifying story but likewise its metaphorical depth and multi-layered significance.

In conclusion, "View from the Overlook" is a highly comprehensive documentary that provides audiences an extensive check out the making of "The Shining". It supplies a compelling snapshot of Stanley Kubrick's creative genius, the talented cast and team that brought the movie to life, and the lasting cultural effect of this critical scary film.

Top Cast

  • Jack Nicholson (small)
    Jack Nicholson
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  • Jan Harlan
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  • Paul Duncan (small)
    Paul Duncan
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  • John Baxter
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  • Diane Johnson (small)
    Diane Johnson
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  • Roy Walker
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  • Ernest R. Dickerson (small)
    Ernest R. Dickerson
    Self
  • Caleb Deschanel (small)
    Caleb Deschanel
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  • Milena Canonero (small)
    Milena Canonero
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  • Sydney Pollack (small)
    Sydney Pollack
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  • Steven Spielberg (small)
    Steven Spielberg
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