2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

Director: Stanley Kubrick
Starring: Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, William Sylvester

Synopsis:
An expedition to Jupiter goes awry when the onboard AI starts to malfunction.

Impressions:
This film deserves credit for its pioneering special effects, its hard science take on space travel and its effect on getting people to take scifi seriously. I'll also say that the second act plot is pretty interesting. However, I can't ignore the plodding pace and deliberately obtuse storytelling. Frankly speaking, this isn't an enjoyable viewing experience. I hated it when I was younger watching it for the first time, grudgingly admitted its merits watching it as an adult, and this third time for review purposes will probably be the last. Movie buffs will want to see it at least, but general audiences will likely want to pass. My rating may seem like heresy to some, but I don't feel the need to bow to popular opinion on this one. Take it or leave it.

Rating:
50/50