Nicole Kidman’s Reflection on Stanley Kubrick’s ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ 25 Years Later

In 1999, Stanley Kubrick’s film “Eyes Wide Shut” was released to mixed reviews but has since become a legendary movie in the past 25 years. Starring Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise, the film delves into themes of passion, betrayal, stagnant relationships, and hidden desires.

In a recent interview with L.A. Times, Nicole Kidman shared insights into the making of the film, which spanned six months for filming, two years in total production, and even 18 months in post-production under Kubrick’s meticulous direction. Kidman mentioned that there were no alterations made to the film after Kubrick’s passing, and the version that premiered in 2000 was exactly as he intended.

Known for his perfectionism, Kubrick’s attention to detail was evident during filming, like the scene requiring Harvey Keitel to walk through it 68 times before a decision was made. This dedication to perfection has left a lasting impact on the film’s legacy. Christopher Nolan likened “Eyes Wide Shut” to the ‘2001’ of relationship films, highlighting its deep and multi-layered narrative.

The film follows Dr. Bill Harford (played by Tom Cruise) navigating New York’s shadowy underbelly, propelled into a hypnotic odyssey after his wife Alice (Nicole Kidman) reveals her desires. Stripped of security, Bill embarks on a night of exploration, delving into the darker aspects of human nature.

Martin Scorsese noted the initial misinterpretation of ‘Eyes Wide Shut,’ a common occurrence with Kubrick’s works like ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ and ‘The Shining.’ Over time, the film gained appreciation for its blend of dreams and reality, juxtaposing a seemingly ordinary world with surrealism, enhancing its enigmatic allure.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, “Eyes Wide Shut” stands as a testament to Kubrick’s visionary filmmaking, offering a profound and timeless exploration of the human experience.