Introduction to Stanley Kubrick’s Last Film
Stanley Kubrick was supposed to complete his long career, which began in 1952 and spanned nearly five decades, with the film "Eyes Wide Shut". At the time of his death in 1999, he had several projects that were not yet complete, including "AI: Artificial Intelligence", which was adapted from a short novel by Brian Aldiss. Another project, "Aryan Papers", was inspired by the war and had been in the works for over 10 years.
The Story Behind "Eyes Wide Shut"
As with most of Kubrick’s earlier works, "Eyes Wide Shut" was inspired by a literary novel, in this case, a dream story by the Austrian writer Arthur Schnitzler. Kubrick had the right to develop and change the story as he saw fit, and the resulting film is a complex exploration of love, relationships, and the human psyche.
The Film’s Plot
The film tells the story of a physical couple who live spiritually separate lives. Each of them imagines that their partner is another person, and they feel a deep desire for this imagined person. The film follows the character of William, played by Tom Cruise, as he navigates a secret society that has no spirituality or ethics. This society is depicted as having violent rituals and a lack of morality, and some analysts have seen it as a representation of Freemasonry.
Philosophical Themes
Kubrick’s films often begin with a philosophical dimension, and "Eyes Wide Shut" is no exception. The film explores the idea that our eyes are "closed… on the width" of the truth, and that we often wear masks to deceive ourselves and others. This theme is reflected in the character of William, who is on a journey of self-discovery and exploration.
The Mask as a Symbol
The mask is a powerful symbol in the film, representing the mixture of truth and imagination. It is a reminder that our perceptions of reality are often distorted, and that we may be wearing masks to hide our true selves. The mask is also a symbol of the hidden forces that shape our lives, and the ways in which we are controlled by external factors.
The Truth About Reality
The film raises important questions about the nature of reality and how we perceive it. As the character of Alice says, "I am confident that the truth or even the whole life cannot be seen the truth." This statement highlights the idea that our understanding of reality is always subjective and limited, and that we can never truly know the truth.
Conclusion
"Eyes Wide Shut" is a complex and thought-provoking film that explores the human condition in a unique and challenging way. Through its use of symbolism, philosophical themes, and complex characters, the film raises important questions about the nature of reality and our place in the world. As Kubrick’s final film, it is a fitting conclusion to a career that was marked by innovation, creativity, and a willingness to challenge societal norms.
