2001: A Space Odyssey

1968 • 148 minutes

About this movie

Stanley Kubrick redefined the limits of filmmaking in his classic science fiction masterpiece, a contemplation on the nature of humanity, 2001: A Space Odyssey. Stone Age Earth: In the presence of a mysterious black obelisk, pre-humans discover the use of tools--and weapons--violently taking first steps toward intelligence. 1999: On Earth's moon astronauts uncover another mysterious black obelisk. 2001: Between Earth and Jupiter, the spacecraft's intelligent computer makes a mistake that kills most of the human crew--then continues to kill to hide its error. Beyond Time: The sole survivor of the journey to Jupiter ascends to the next level of humanity.

Ratings and reviews

This is the quintessential sci-fi film and a must see for anyone who likes thoughtful movies over mindless marvel garbage, although I'm sure there is a crossover. Beautiful and thought provoking, this is a movie that requires patience, re-watching, open mindedness and a brain to appreciate. The pace won't be everyone's cup of tea, but for sheer scale alone this movie is a must. Kubrick will always be and should always be lauded for the audacity with which he made this film, considering it was made before we landed on the moon. The film still looks breathtaking, hasn't dated at all (apart from some dodgy haircuts) and is spectacular attempt at real filmmaking, something we don't see much of anymore.