An enjoyable period adaptation

Milo 2021-11-13 08:01:24

This film falls under the category of what Pauline Kael called "Good Trash". A lot of the techniques employed by Kubrick here are demanding, yet readily pleasing: although the film is very long, the editing is so disciplined that one feels not one dull moment. And the soft lighting is very hard to do well without: (1) ruining the right contrast and in-situ fidelity, and (2) seeming cloy as caramel; but Kubrick pulls it off!

On the other hand, the theme material lacks depth, and we feel out of touch with the characters, who are not really fully devloped and plausible. However, one only recognizes these shortcomings upon reflection after the viewing, and the viewing itself is thoroughly agreeable . Come to think of it, the spirit of the film is very well aligned to the style of the Baroque novels themselves, which is more about mannerism and a wry sense of humor than realism and psychological depth. A very nice period adaptation.

Tips: the recurring theme music, a motif of delicate beauty, at times sweet, and at times haunting, is from Schubert's Piano Trio in E-Flat. A good rendition is by the Beaux Art quartet. Otherwise the set performance with Grimaux is also excellent.

View more about Barry Lyndon reviews

Extended Reading
  • Lola 2022-03-24 09:01:37

    A lot of center composition, even an over-the-shoulder shot will insist on placing the front-facing character in the center. A lot of Zoom out, removing the sense of space, is more like the inverse process of observing paintings. The music is neither happy nor sad, and it is firmly advanced.

  • Joe 2022-03-23 09:01:40

    I really can hold my breath for three hours, and there is no point at all to jump out and do something big. The difference between the master of the signs and the mortals is that even the climax does not float at all, making the audience look anxious, but it is too difficult to replicate. Kubrick can really capture all genres. This historical theme is like a sports oil painting. It is unfolded in a calm third-person narrative. There are countless jokes interspersed with grace. Although the penetration of the level accepts the upper-class social atmosphere in the growth, but always maintains the gentleman's demeanor and atmosphere, runs through the whole film with a high dignity, and stands in a European aristocratic world before the morality is completely destroyed by the super strong fighting ability. In addition to the direct reference to Gainsborough, Hogarth and Wallis on the screen, the depiction of the Seven Years' War between England and France is also very exciting, from the life of the soldiers to the battle of the position. The creation of candle lighting is also astounding. The adjustment from the first person to the third person of Thackeray gives the oil painting a witty narrative with a slight distance. Also, the male lead really looks like Rousseau.

Barry Lyndon quotes

  • Barry's Mother: Reverend Runt, I need not tell you that the recent tragedy to this family has made the services of a tutor no longer required at Castle Hackton. And as we are in some considerable difficulty about money, I'm afraid I must ask you, with the greatest reluctance, to resign your post.

    Rev. Samuel Runt: Madam, I'm sensible of your predicament, and you need have no concern about my wages, with which I can willingly do without, but it is out of the question for me to consider leaving Her Ladyship in her present state.

    Barry's Mother: I'm very sorry to say this to you, but I truly believe you are largely responsible for the state of mind she is in, and the sooner you leave, the better she will be.

    Rev. Samuel Runt: Madam, with the greatest respect, I take my instructions only from Her Ladyship.

    Barry's Mother: Reverend Runt, Her Ladyship is in no fit mind to give instructions to anyone. My son has charged me with managing the affairs at Castle Hackton until he recovers from his grief and resumes his interest in worldly matters. And while I am in charge, you will take your instructions from me. My only concern is for Lady Lyndon.

    Rev. Samuel Runt: Madam! Your only concern is for Her Ladyship's signature! You and your son have almost succeeded in destroying a fine family fortune! And what little remains for you depends on keeping Her Ladyship prisoner in her own house!

    Barry's Mother: Reverend Runt! This matter bears no further discussion! You will pack your bags and leave by tomorrow morning!

  • Rev. Samuel Runt: My Lord Bullingdon, you seem particularly glum today. You should be happy that your mother has remarried.

    Lord Bullingdon: Not in this way. And not in such haste. And certainly not to this man.

    Rev. Samuel Runt: I think you judge your mother too harshly. Do you not like your new father?

    Lord Bullingdon: Not very much. He seems to me little more than a common opportunist. I don't think he loves my mother at all, and it hurts me to see her make such a fool of herself.