Josh Lempert’s review published on Letterboxd:
70mm
AFI Silver
Wow. Just wow.
That was just about the only thing I could think throughout this amazing film. I don't think I've ever been so blown away by a movie for as long as I can remember. As a film lover, as well as just a person with eyes, this was on another level.
From a technical standpoint, I'm pretty sure there is nothing better than this. The techniques used to actually make and film this movie are unbelievable. There were certain shots in this that left me in utter disbelief. The framing was AMAZING.
This film has been called slow by many, and it is, but deliberately so. Every shot is so carefully and expertly crafted and the viewer has ample time to absorb every single frame.
The sound design was also incredible. From the iconic score, to the breathing, to the powerful silence of space. The sound on a movie like this is so important due to the overwhelming lack of dialogue for the majority of the film.
The set design was also unlike anything I've ever seen. This movie manages to create some of the most aesthetically pleasing scenery I've ever seen.
Kubrick's vision was absolutely game-changing and that is so clear to see.
Honestly, I feel like this movie could've been called 2091: A Space Odyssey and could have come out today and people would have still been blown away. We just wouldn't have all the countless sci-fi films that drew inspiration and influence from Kubrick's masterpiece.
Seeing this movie in theaters with the original print was truly special and if you have the opportunity to catch it before it's done, I HIGHLY recommend.
Sorry for the long rant, but here's a mini one: if you are watching a movie that has absolute, pin-drop silence for any length of time, take that as your hint to not dig your hand into your bag of popcorn at that exact moment. I love popcorn at the movies but c'mon people.