If you ever dream about a winter vacation in a beautiful mansion in the Rocky’s, you will never envision the same dream after watching “The Shining” that was released in 1980.  

The movie was based on a Stephen King novel which many argue were not identical in production.  Although the fear and drama were extremely well captured in this film. (Ebert, 1980)

The setting of a family taking care of the beautiful mansion in the Rocky Mountains seems idyllic.  Even with the knowledge of the former caretaker had killed his wife and child then committed suicide did not persuade Jack from taking the job.  Little did he know what cabin fever and a haunted mansion can do to a family.

The haunted rooms and the Grady girls bring a creepiness that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up.  I felt like someone was staring at me from the corner of the room which I know was my imagination brought on by the brilliant performance and music selection from the movie.                                                                                

The Shining stared Jack Nicolson, but several A list stars were in the running for the lead. This movie debuted with slow ticket sales and mixed criticism but took of the summer of 1980.  This is one of those movies that you may not be able to watch twice but you will never forget it.

There was much debate over the final production of this movie as not everything was in line with the book.  Although these may seem little minor details some critics had a lot to say. Little things like the forbidden room 237 in the movie was room 217 in the book.  The Grady girls were not twins even though they are often referred to as twins. The most controversial difference in the movie was Jack’s motivation of action which had Stephen King dissatisfied with the movie. (Wikipedia, n.d.)

Famous quotes from the movie such as “Heeeere’s Johnny!”, was taken from a late-night comedy show starring Johnny Carson. The scene where Jack stick his head through the bathroom door to use such a memorable line is still referred to today. The word “Redrum” will not be forgot to any viewer of the shinning and its secret meaning when read backward says” Murder”.  The scene when the elevator doors flooded the hallway with blood gave many views nightmares for weeks. (Ebert, 1980)

The scene with Danny on the tricycle and seeing the Grady girls is forever etched in my brain.  The twins died long ago but Danny with his telepathic powers can see them as if they are alive.

Even with such memorable scenes this film was only nominated for 6 awards and only won best supporting actor.  In the movie “Twister” You can catch a glimpse of the famous “Hereee’s Johnny” and the tricycle scene just before the twister takes out the drive-in movie. (Wikipedia, n.d.)

Did the movie end they way you thought it would?  Not for me, I believe Jack would also murder his family after going after them with the ax.  To my surprise, Wendy and Danny escaped while Jack froze to death in the Labyrinth.

                                                                                                                                    

A squeal was never produced but my imagination made several in my mine.

In conclusion, this film was original at it’s time but has influenced several movies, directors, writers and actress.   Several of Stephan King’s books have also been made into films with great success. They used innovative cameras that help advance film technology.

Without the use of modern day cameras and computer editing and enhance this 1980 completely scare you to death. (Wikipedia, n.d.) (Ebert, 1980)