Barry Lyndon (1975)
Raiting: 
8,1 /10
Genre: War
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Stars: Ryan O'Neal, Marisa Berenson and Patrick Magee
Country: United Kingdom / United States
Release date: 26 November 1975
Length: 184 minutes
Stanley Kubrick's "Barry Lyndon" (1975) is a cinematic masterpiece that tells the epic tale of the rise and fall of its eponymous character, an Irishman named Redmond Barry. The film, based on William Makepeace Thackeray's novel "The Luck of Barry Lyndon", is renowned for its meticulous attention to historical detail, its stunning visuals, and its exploration of themes such as social climbing, warfare, and the fickleness of fortune. Set in the 18th century, the film's narrative spans across Europe, painting a vivid picture of its protagonist's adventurous life.
The story begins with young Redmond Barry, who, after being involved in a duel over the love of his cousin, is forced to leave his home in Ireland. This event marks the beginning of his long and tumultuous journey through life. Barry first joins the British Army, serving in the Seven Years' War, but deserts and briefly joins the Prussian Army. His knack for survival sees him through various escapades, including espionage and gambling, as he uses his wits and charm to ascend the social ladder.
Barry's fortunes take a significant turn when he marries the wealthy and widowed Lady Lyndon, entering the world of the 18th-century aristocracy. With this marriage, he assumes the title of Barry Lyndon and attempts to secure his and his son's future. However, Barry's ambition is matched by his recklessness and propensity for making enemies. His lavish spending, gambling, and poor treatment of Lady Lyndon lead to his gradual downfall. The film meticulously captures Barry's complex character—a man capable of both tenderness and cruelty, whose desires ultimately lead to his undoing.
The cinematography of "Barry Lyndon" is one of its most celebrated aspects. Kubrick, known for his perfectionism, used natural lighting and innovative camera techniques to recreate the look and feel of the 18th century, resulting in visuals that resemble classical paintings. The use of music, including pieces by Schubert and Handel, further enhances the film's period atmosphere and emotional depth.
The final act of the film sees Barry's life unravel as he faces financial ruin, the loss of his son, and social ostracization. Despite his attempts to change his fate, Barry is ultimately defeated by the very society he sought to conquer. The film closes on a somber note, reminding the audience of the transient nature of fortune and the universal inevitability of death and obscurity.
"Barry Lyndon" is a film of epic proportions, not just in its narrative scope but in its thematic and visual ambition. Kubrick's film is both a historical epic and a deeply personal story of ambition, love, and loss. Its slow pace and deliberate storytelling may not cater to all tastes, but for those who appreciate cinema as an art form, "Barry Lyndon" offers an unparalleled visual and narrative experience that remains impactful decades after its release.
Top cast - Barry Lyndon (1975)
Trailer - Barry Lyndon (1975)
Stanley Kubrick's "Barry Lyndon" is a sweeping epic that stands as a monumental achievement in film for its technical mastery and its unflinching portrayal of the human condition. Released in 1975, the film adapts William Makepeace Thackeray's novel "The Luck of Barry Lyndon", chronicling the life and times of an 18th-century Irish rogue whose ambitions lead him through the ranks of European society. Despite its initial mixed reception, "Barry Lyndon" has come to be regarded as one of Kubrick's finest works, lauded for its painstaking historical accuracy, visual artistry, and narrative depth.
The film is renowned for its visual splendor, which is characterized by its groundbreaking use of natural and practical lighting. Kubrick and cinematographer John Alcott employed innovative techniques, including the use of NASA-developed lenses, to film scenes by candlelight, creating a look that evokes the paintings of the Old Masters. This attention to authenticity extends to the sumptuous costumes and sets, each frame of the film a testament to the era it depicts. The result is a visual feast that immerses the viewer in the grandeur and the grit of the period.
What makes "Barry Lyndon" particularly compelling is its narrative arc, which is as deliberate as it is tragic. Ryan O'Neal's performance as Redmond Barry/Barry Lyndon is both understated and nuanced, capturing the complexity of a man driven by ambition yet doomed by his own flaws. The film's pacing is methodical, allowing the audience to fully engage with Barry's journey from a naive young man to a member of the aristocracy, and ultimately to a figure of pathos. Kubrick's storytelling is unapologetic in its depiction of the ruthlessness of social climbing and the ultimate futility of Barry's pursuits.
Another remarkable aspect of "Barry Lyndon" is its score, which features a selection of classical music that perfectly complements the on-screen action. The use of pieces by composers such as Schubert and Handel enhances the emotional resonance of the film and further anchors it within its historical context.
However, it is important to note that "Barry Lyndon" may not cater to all tastes. Its slow pace and length—running over three hours—demand patience and attention from its audience. The film's emphasis on visual composition and methodical storytelling over fast-paced action or dramatic plot twists may not appeal to viewers accustomed to more conventional cinematic experiences.
In conclusion, "Barry Lyndon" is a cinematic tour de force that showcases Stanley Kubrick's mastery of the medium. It is a film that rewards viewers with its richness of detail, profound character study, and breathtaking visuals. While it may require a certain level of commitment to fully appreciate its artistry, "Barry Lyndon" remains a must-see for cinephiles and those who appreciate film as a form of high art. Its legacy endures as a brilliant encapsulation of a bygone era and a poignant commentary on the human experience.