Revisiting the Classics: The Shining

Nearly everyone has heard of the psychological thriller The Shining, a movie released in 1980 based off the Stephen King novel of the same name. Ask anyone to tell you some of the hallmarks of the film, and, even if they haven’t seen it, they will -- the creepy twins, the famous bloody elevator scene, and (of course) the “Here’s Johnny!” line. However, this film has been condemned to the life of pop culture, serving no more as a popular reference, and its entire merit has been forgotten.

Upon actually watching the film for the first time, I was surprised at the level of horror conveyed. In a lot of horror films from this time, special effects were unrealistic and plot lines flawed, leaving the audience laughing rather than screaming. Not The Shining. The Shining left me feeling irked, and afraid to use the bathroom in the middle of the night, worried I might look up in the mirror and see the word “Redrum” written across my bathroom door.

For those who don’t know, The Shining tells the story of a writer (Jack Nicholson), his wife (Shelley Duvall), and their son (Danny Lloyd). They take up residence at the Overlook hotel, and serve as its guardians as it closes down for the winter months.

Things get scary, and they get scary fast as cabin fever and powers of the paranormal take hold.

Now, there’s usually two kinds of horror movies: jump scares and the disturbing. The Shining has a perfect mixture of both. There are jump cuts that startle you, as if you were stuck by a pin, and long, suspenseful scenes that cause you to sink into your seat a little further.

Some critics of the film say that the wife character is too -- how can I put this nicely? -- flighty. So much so that it adds an unwanted cheesiness to the movie. And while I agree with said critics, I still found the film enjoyable, and Jack Nicholson gives an incredible performance -- one that makes you wonder if he is truly as twisted as his character. I was still scared by it, which is what everyone wants when they sit down and decide to watch a horror film.

All in all, this film was artfully done, both in acting and direction, and I would highly recommend watching this classic the next time you get the chance.

The Shining has received 8.4 stars on IMDB, and was included in the novel 1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die by Steven Schneider.

The Shining is currently available for streaming on Netflix.