Review
‘Enter the world of an eccentric genius‘
Kubrick is often cited as one of the greatest directors of the 20th century, his films have gathered both critical acclaim and cult status. This unique showcase offers a window into the world of an eccentric genius whose films tastefully defy convention making it an exhibition not to be missed.
Situated in Kensington’s Design Museum, the gallery is devised into a neat assortment of props, miniature set recreations, behind the scene facts and snap shot screenings of his 8 major pictures; A Clockwork Orange (1971), Lolita (1962), Dr Strangelove (1964), The Shining (1980), Spartacus (1960), Full Metal Jacket (1987), Barry Lyndon (1975), Eyes Wide Shut (1999) and 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968). One of my favourite BTS facts I accumulated as I wandered through the various artefacts was how Kubrick went to extreme lengths to make his films in England. This included building the torn down city of Hue for Full Metal, where it is estimated the director flew 200 palm trees to his London studio. I remember thinking, Kubrick’s desire to have things done on his own terms is commendable but also verges on being just a bit mental and he probably wasn’t the ideal co-worker; poor Shelly Devall. Anyway, the major focuses of the exhibition are on these design elements, which showcased Kubrick’s ability to collect the very best actors, cinematographers and screenplays (often adapted from literature) into stylish, yet explosive cinema with top notch set design. A miniature model of the control room featured in Dr Strangelove along with bold charcoal sketches of this set was a lovely addition to the gallery and for me reinforced the importance of set design in film. Furthermore, the gallery highlights the director’s ability to turn his hand at any genre and execute a masterpiece. From the heavenly detailed renaissance stylings in Barry Lyndon to the poetic language of A Clockwork’s Droogs, Kubrick is able to strike a fair balance between style and substance and I believe it is this that makes his work so timeless.
Overall, the exhibition offers a richly detailed insight suitable for film buffs, designers and engineers who appreciate the technicalities of the filmmaking process. I will end on saying that the Kubrick exhibition is an insight into the films and not the man himself, so if you are looking for a more personal exploration of the director then this is not the gallery for you… although as I said he did seem a bloody nightmare to work with!
The exhibition runs until 15th September 2019 at the Design Museum, London England.
Millie Mussett 