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Title: a generation later, we in the public have caught up to kubricks "flop"
Review: i hadnt seen this since its initial release 30 years back, and at the time i was among the many who expressed disappointment. now, it has grown considerably in my estimation. while the acting of ryan o'neal still leaves something toi be desired, everything else about the movie stands out: a subtle script, fine performances, and of course magnificent to look at. the battle sequences are harrowing, but the infighting and backstabbing of the various court intrigues (not to mention the parallel intrigues among the rural set) are whats really harrowing. kubrick made so many dark movies, and this one was so misunderstood. it doesnt rank in my own list with his 4 great science fiction films (strangelove, 2001, clockwork, eyes), but thats more a matter of personal preference. a masterpiece -- even if we are only recognizing it as such a generation later.
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