4. Eyes Wide Shut
Adapted from Arthur Schnitzler's novella 'Dream Story', Kubrick's final film tells the story of Dr. Bill and Alice Harford (Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman), a married couple who embark on a sexual reawakening at a country mansion masquerade ball. Or is it more complex than that? A labyrinth of lust, fidelity and fantasy? Or a glorified sex tape from Hollywood's most hallowed? Whether its pseudo-religious rites lost you at the door or lured you in for the night, there can be no denying the involvement of the viewer here. From Alice essentially emasculating her husband with a pointed revelation, to his awkward attempt at vengeance, the camera's presence between the couple borders on claustrophobia. The continuous shot through the main hall, floating through an anonymous (if rather stylised) orgy, creates the illusion in the viewer of having gatecrashed a particularly exclusive party. Yet the guests are in no rush for you to leave...