4. The Shining (1980): Kubrick’s Descent into Madness
Stanley Kubrick’s iconic psychological horror film, adapted from Stephen King’s novel, remains a masterclass in building dread. It follows Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson), an aspiring writer who takes a winter caretaker position at the isolated Overlook Hotel with his wife Wendy and clairvoyant son Danny. As the hotel’s sinister presence influences Jack, he descends into madness, threatening his family. The film is renowned for its unsettling atmosphere, disturbing imagery (like the Grady twins and Room 237), and Nicholson’s unforgettable performance, creating psychological torment that lingers long after viewing. Despite initial mixed reactions,
The Shining has been critically re-evaluated and is now widely considered one of the greatest horror films and one of the greatest films of all time, a true cult classic.
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 83%
Watch Link (India):
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent/Buy
- Apple TV: Rent/Buy
