Eyes Wide Shut

19992h 39m Directed by Stanley Kubrick
7.5
(6563 votes)
DramaThrillerMystery

Overview

After Dr. Bill Harford's wife, Alice, admits to having sexual fantasies about a man she met, Bill becomes obsessed with having a sexual encounter. He discovers an underground sexual group and attends one of their meetings -- and quickly discovers that he is in over his head.

Eyes Wide Shut

Unveiling the Masks of Desire: A Haunting Exploration of Marriage and Deception

Maya Ellison
Maya EllisonSep 5, 2025
Stanley Kubrick's "Eyes Wide Shut" is a mesmerizing and complex film that delves into the intricacies of marriage, desire, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. The movie follows Dr. Bill Harford, a successful physician, as he navigates a journey of self-discovery and obsession after his wife, Alice, reveals her hidden desires. As Bill becomes increasingly consumed by his own fantasies, he finds himself entangled in a mysterious and sinister world of underground sex clubs and masked encounters. With its slow-burning tension and meticulous attention to detail, "Eyes Wide Shut" is a thought-provoking thriller that challenges viewers to confront the darker aspects of human nature.

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One of the standout aspects of the film is its exploration of the complexities of marriage and relationships. The chemistry between Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman is palpable, and their performances bring depth and nuance to the characters. The film's use of long takes and deliberate pacing creates a sense of intimacy and realism, drawing the viewer into the world of the characters. However, the movie's themes of desire, jealousy, and deception are not always easy to watch, and some viewers may find the pacing and tone to be overly indulgent. Despite this, Kubrick's masterful direction and the strong performances from the cast make "Eyes Wide Shut" a compelling and unforgettable viewing experience.

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The film's use of symbolism and metaphor adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, inviting viewers to interpret the events of the story in different ways. The masked ball, in particular, is a striking and unsettling sequence that serves as a commentary on the social masks we wear and the secrets we keep. The film's score, featuring a haunting rendition of Chris Isaak's "Baby Did a Bad, Bad Thing," adds to the sense of unease and tension, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that is both captivating and unnerving. While "Eyes Wide Shut" may not be to every viewer's taste, it is a film that will linger in the mind long after the credits roll, inviting reflection and debate about the nature of desire, relationships, and the human condition. With its rich themes, stunning visuals, and outstanding performances, "Eyes Wide Shut" is a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers and cinematic masterpieces.

CAST

Tom Cruise
Tom Cruise
Dr. William Harford
Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman
Alice Harford
Sydney Pollack
Sydney Pollack
Victor Ziegler
Marie Richardson
Marie Richardson
Marion
Rade Šerbedžija
Rade Šerbedžija
Milich
Todd Field
Todd Field
Nick Nightingale
Vinessa Shaw
Vinessa Shaw
Domino
Alan Cumming
Alan Cumming
Desk Clerk
Sky du Mont
Sky du Mont
Sandor Szavost
Fay Masterson
Fay Masterson
Sally

Trailer

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