3 x STANLEY KUBRICK
I’ve started a new video series on Instagram and TikTok called “3 x” where I feature three films by different actors or directors. You know how much I love Stanley Kubrick’s work, and it seemed quite fitting to do a “3 x ” video in honor of the new Criterion Collection box set “The Complete Kubrick” which releases October 20, 2026. You can order it now on their website or at places like Barnes & Noble.
Here is my 3 x Stanley Kubrick
PATHS OF GLORY (1957)
Stanley Kubrick explored the realities of war from a few different angles in movies like Paths of Glory, Barry Lyndon, Dr. Strangelove, and Full Metal Jacket. Kirk Douglas is excellent in Paths of Glory and this collaboration led to their reunion on Spartacus. Paths of Glory features a military whose leaders are turning their backs on their own soldiers for their own political gain. The ending is brutal and feels ripped from the headlines of Pete Hegseth’s leadership decisions. It’s fun to see Kubrick’s early work and see how his style and methods are already visible.
THE SHINING (1980)
Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s bestseller is a crowning achievement, but not one that came easy for anyone involved. King has notoriously shunned this film stating his displeasure with Kubrick’s changes with the source material. Both are terrifying in their own ways. Kubrick gives this film somewhat of a slow burn as he eases into the Torrence family dynamics, Jack’s work in the Overlook Hotel, and Wendy and Danny settling in for the cold winter in this massive hotel. Kubrick’s sound design cuts sharp and quick taking the audience by surprise as he ratchets up the horror. The quick cuts, the slow fades piles on the dread that is deeply unsettling as we watch Jack’s descent into madness. I’ve watched this movie countless times, and like every Kubrick, I get something new out of every viewing. Justice for Shelley Duvall who gives an amazing performance as Wendy!
2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY (1968)
I recently got to introduce this film before a 70mm presentation at the Heights Theater. It still feels as stunning, breathtaking, and groundbreaking as it did back in 1968. Kubrick is always engaging on all of your senses, and 2001 is a visual feast with its kaleidoscope of colors. HAL 9000 is considered one of the greatest on-screen villains despite it being a computer program. You’ll know why once you see this film. It may have seemed like science fiction back then, but now we are close to reality as Alexa and Siri are today’s version of the HAL 9000.
Here’s the 3 x video I made
Do you have a favorite Stanley Kubrick film? Let me know on social media!
