Barry Lyndon (1975) movie analysis and film criticism directed by Stanley Kubrick for advanced English students to practice the 4 English skills based on the English Immersion Program
Barry Lyndon (1975) movie trailer
Barry Lyndon (1975) movie analysis
Stanley Kubrick’s 1975 masterpiece, Barry Lyndon, is a captivating exploration of the human condition, focusing on the themes of social ambition, the illusion of happiness, and the cyclical nature of life. The film follows the life of Redmond Barry, a young Irish rogue who dreams of climbing the social ladder through cunning and manipulation.
Barry’s journey takes him from his humble beginnings to the heights of aristocratic society, where he marries a wealthy widow and assumes the title of Barry Lyndon. However, his pursuit of wealth and status proves to be a hollow pursuit, as he finds himself trapped in a loveless marriage and a life of superficiality. Kubrick masterfully depicts the emptiness of Barry’s existence, highlighting the superficiality of the aristocratic world and the ultimate futility of social climbing.
Through Barry’s experiences, the film delves into the cyclical nature of life, demonstrating how individuals are often caught in patterns of repetition. Barry’s rise and fall mirror the rise and fall of empires, emphasizing the transient nature of power and the inevitability of decline. The film’s conclusion, with Barry returning to his humble origins, underscores this theme, suggesting that true happiness and fulfillment cannot be found in material possessions or social status.
Stanley Kubrick’s other 3 films we’ve analyzed
2001: A Space Odyssey is a visionary science fiction film that explores scientific breakthroughs and human encounter with extraterrestrial intelligence. It is a cinematic masterpiece known for its groundbreaking special effects, haunting music, and thought-provoking themes.
The Shining is a psychological horror film that delves into the depths of madness and isolation. Set in a secluded hotel during the winter, the film follows a family tormented by supernatural forces and the protagonist’s descent into insanity.
Full Metal Jacket is a war film that depicts the brutal realities of military training and combat. It follows a group of recruits through their transformation into hardened soldiers and their experiences during the Vietnam War.
Discussion questions
- How does Stanley Kubrick’s use of natural light and candlelight contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere and thematic exploration of the 18th century?
- To what extent does Barry Lyndon’s character challenge traditional notions of heroism and villainy? How does his transformation from a young opportunist to a jaded aristocrat reflect the film’s exploration of the human condition?
- How does Barry Lyndon critique the societal norms and values of the 18th century aristocracy? What does the film suggest about the pursuit of wealth, status, and happiness in a world dominated by appearances?
In the first half of the movie we saw Barry Lyndon as an opportunistic and rather a reckless young boy who was supposedly to be the hero and protagonist of the story. However, as the storey unfolds, he became more selfish and greedy, he cheated on his wife and became a womanizer and treated his stepson inappropriately. In the last third of the movie, viewers perceive his character more as the villain and antagonist. Therefore, Barry Lyndon’s character shifts throughout the movie.
Thank you for your ample comment on the film, Barry Lyndon!
This was the film I’ve always wanted to watch, yet I procrastinated watching it to the end due to being rather boring and too long. Yet, over the last week, I disciplined myself to watch it from start to end in one session, and that was worth watching. I really thought I was not watching a film, but reading a novel, especially because of the refined conversations and behaviors.
The theme of the film was also clearly and straightforwardly conveyed to me greatly facilitated by the narrator, unlike Earnest Hemingway’s objective point of view. The second half of the movie was more exciting and thrilling, particularly around the end, when the concept of karma was realized surprisingly.