The Shining Review, a very atmospheric and creepy movie staring Jack Nicholson.
Writer Stephen King
Cast
Jack Nicholson - Jack Torrance
Shelley Duvall - Wendy Torrance
Danny Lloyd - Danny Torrance
Scatman Crothers - Dick Hallorann
Barry Nelson - Stuart Ullman
Philip Stone - Delbert Grady
Joe Turkel - Lloyd the bartender
Anne Jackson - Doctor
Tony Burton - Larry Durkin
Warner Bros Pictures, Running time 142 minutes.
A father and this family go to a isolated hotel in the heart of winter, the hotel has a dark past and contains dark spirits that start to influence Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson). Jack slowly starts to become insane. While Jack is losing his mind their son develops a psychic ability called the shining that allows him to see spirits, and even be possessed by one.
Right from the start this movie is captivating, it has a unique atmosphere and mood which gets more intense as the film progresses. The very creepy atmosphere is enhanced by the great camera work, which includes the use of long shots which very effectively creates a sense of isolation. The creepy music is also very effective at setting the mood. As the movie progresses it creates a real sense of tension and panic in the last half an hour, plus it has one of the best ever endings to a film.
Jack Nicholson is fantastic in this movie and plays the role perfectly, It's hard to imagine anyone else doing a better job. Jack Nicholson is also very funny in his role which adds to his brilliant performance.
I am sure when this film was released it was terrifying, however I only watched The Shining relatively recently. While I can't say I was terrified watching this, I do find it an incredibly creepy experience and it certainly deserves a high rating.
8 out of 10
