Stanley Kubrick: A Narrative and Stylistic Analysis

by Mario Falsetto

The second edition of Mario Falsetto's extensive analysis of Kubrick's films carefully examines the filmmaker's oeuvre in its entirety--from smaller, early films ( The Killing ) through mid-career masterpieces ( Dr. Strangelove; 2001: A Space Odyssey; A Clockwork Orange ), later films such as Full Metal Jacket , and his final work, 1999's Eyes Wide Shut . The author, offering close readings supported by precise shot descriptions, shows us how Kubrick's body of work represents a stylistically and thematically consistent cinematic vision, one that merges formal experimentation with great philosophical complexity.

Falsetto explores many of Kubrick's often-used devices, including the long-take aesthetic, voice-overs, and moving camera, and discusses the thematic uses to which these techniques are applied. Finally, he presents the very first formal analysis of Eyes Wide Shut , the director's final, very much underrated masterwork.

Genres: Film, Nonfiction

248 pages, Paperback

First published July 30, 2001

Reviews

[Dustin Gutekunst · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Kubrick's films were made with great artistry and craftsmanship, and the director was profoundly committed to the uniqueness of the film medium. His films challenge our understanding of the world and sometimes force us to think in ways we would prefer not to. If we are, at times, made uncomfortable when we view a Kubrick film, we are just as often exhilarated by the experience. In this era of new media, Stanley Kubrick's cinematic legacy will continue to provide pleasure, provoke controversy and contribute to a better understanding of both art and human nature. Now, more than ever, we need Stanley Kubrick's films to make us think about who we are and how to live in the world."

[Rasik Tirodkar · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book gives you a very good insight mainly on the mastery over technique that Kubrick had and the way he used formal techniques to put forth his ideas. The book is best enjoyed if you have Kubrick films readily available with you and the scenes analysed are played simultaneously while reading the text in the book.

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

Detailed analysis of Kubrick’s mise en scenes; most notably, “Barry Lyndon”. Helpful, published like manuscript, not in generous, book, format. Dissertation, most likely, author familiar with and exuberant about Kubrick’s films.

[Rory · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is helpful in studying Kubrick's films as it provides a thorough and cogent structural analysis of all his works.