Have you ever wondered why we pay to feel fear? It’s a thrill unique to humans, and it manifests in many forms—one of the most iconic being horror films. Among these, a particular masterpiece stands tall, not just in cinematic history but also in record books.
Today’s film of focus is Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, which marked its 45th anniversary recently. Based on a novel by Stephen King, the film deviates significantly from its source material—a divergence that led to King publicly voicing his dissatisfaction. Kubrick, known for his relentless quest for perfection, made decisions that etched The Shining into the Guinness World Records.
What World Record Does The Shining Hold?
So, what’s this world record? The Shining holds the record for the most retakes of a single dialogue scene, clocking in at an astounding 148 takes. The sequence features Danny (Danny Lloyd) and Dick Hallorann (Scatman Crothers) discussing the concept of ‘the shining.’
Kubrick’s dedication didn’t stop there. He famously shot the iconic “Here’s Johnny” scene, with Jack Nicholson breaking through a door, more than 130 times—resulting in about 60 doors being destroyed. If you think Kubrick’s methods are extreme, it’s worth noting that David Fincher also required almost 99 takes for the opening scene of The Social Network.
Here’s an intriguing detail: it’s still unclear which of the 148 takes appeared in the final cut of The Shining. It could be the very first one or perhaps the last. While this quest for perfection is captivating, one can’t help but imagine how grueling it must have been for the actors.
Why Did Kubrick Need 148 Takes of the Same Scene?
Why the obsession with 148 takes? The answer lies in Kubrick’s relentless pursuit of perfection. This particular scene serves as one of the most intense moments of the film, making his meticulous approach understandable. However, his methods often crossed into the territory of cruelty; for instance, Shelly Duvall, who portrayed Wendy, faced constant criticism and emotional strain to push her to embody her character’s despair.
As we celebrate 45 years of The Shining, opinions on Kubrick’s approach diverge. Some may label it sadistic while others view it as a fascinating commitment to craft. Regardless, his decisions have resulted in a timeless classic that continues to resonate with horror fans everywhere.
What are some iconic scenes in The Shining? The film is filled with unforgettable moments, from the eerie twins in the hallway to Jack’s chilling transformation, all intricately crafted to evoke terror.
Did Stephen King like The Shining? King has been openly critical of Kubrick’s adaptation, feeling it strayed too far from the emotional heart of his novel.
How has The Shining influenced modern horror? The film’s unique motifs and unsettling atmosphere have been emulated by countless filmmakers, impacting the genre for decades.
In what other ways did Kubrick push boundaries in cinema? Kubrick was known for his controversial methods, from extended shooting times to intense actor training, making his films both artful and dissected.
As we reflect on the legacy of The Shining, it’s clear that Kubrick’s determination to achieve cinematic excellence has left an indelible mark on horror and filmmaking as a whole. So, if you’re curious about more intriguing tales from the world of cinema, or even want to dive into other horror classics, keep exploring connected content at Moyens I/O.