Magnificent

Arguably one of the greatest science fiction films of all time, 2001 has been highly influential on many subsequent films and video games, yet has remained so distinctive that to some extent it is in a category all of its own.

Truly cosmic in scope, it is also highly abstract and mysterious, the meaning of the film being left to the audience to decide. The slow pace of the narrative won't suit everyone yet it is perfect for the material. The union of the visuals in the space station docking sequence with the soundtrack of the Blue Danube Waltz is truly stunning. Indeed, throughout the film the choice of music is absolutely right in creating the appropriate atmosphere at each scene; Ligeti's modernist pieces are suitability unnerving and awe inspiring and Khatchaturian's piece which is played at the beginning of the Jupiter mission sequence is beautifully melancholic.

2001 is also visually stunning, beautifully framed and photographed. The sets are incredible and are so convincing that they make watching the film a highly immersive experience. The model shots were also groundbreaking and have rarely, if ever, been bettered since. Despite being nearly 50 years old there is very little that is dated giving the production a timeless feel. If you can then you should definitely see this at the cinema as it is truly epic and some visual sequences such as the Star Gate section have a somewhat reduced impact on the small screen.

Due to the slow pace and enigmatic aspects of the story 2001 is never going to be a film which will appeal to all but if you are at all interested in the history of science fiction or cinema in general then you should definitely give it a try.

9/10