Calling All Stanley Kubrick Fans!
The "Summer of Kubrick" series is in full swing as it honors the legacy of legendary director and screenwriter Stanley Kubrick at Brazos Bookstore, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and the Museum of Fine Arts. From movie screenings to book club discussions, both film and literary buffs are in for a real treat.
A Clockwork Orange Book Group
Image: W. W. Norton & Company
Anthony Burgess’ novel follows Alex, a teenager living in futuristic dystopian England, through his ultra-violent tendencies and attempted rehabilitation. A Clockwork Orange is notorious for its creative and challenging use of language through Russian-inspired slang invented by Burgess. The classic novel tackles themes such as free will, corrupt government and extreme dualities.
August 4 at 7 p.m. Free. Brazos Bookstore, 2421 Bissonnet St. brazosbookstore.com
A Clockwork Orange Screening
Image: Warner Bros.
With a similar plot to the novel, the film version has been highly controversial since its release in the early '70s. In the UK, murders and other “copycat” acts of violence were allegedly inspired by the film. It was also given an X rating in the US until Kubrick agreed to replace about 30 seconds of content, resulting in its re-release and current R rating.
August 5 at 7 p.m. $7—9. Museum of Fine Arts Houston, 5601 Main St. mfah.com
Full Metal Jacket Screening
Image: Warner Bros.
Based on Gustav Hasford’s novel The Short-Timers, this film follows the lives of US Marines—from recruitment to combat—as they experience the brutality and dehumanization triggered by the Vietnam War. As with most Kubrick films, Full Metal Jacket is well-constructed, intense and contains some (very) dark humor.
July 24 at 6 p.m. Free to attend, but seats can be reserved by purchasing a $5 food voucher online. Alamo Drafthouse, 114 Vintage Park Blvd. drafthouse.com
The Shining Book Group
Image: Anchor
Most people are familiar with its legendary film counterpart, but many have not read the original page-turning book. Although some general plot points remain similar, Stephen King’s and Stanley Kubrick’s versions differ in significant ways, including contrasting conclusions. In fact, in 2009, King stated that out of all the movies adapted from his thrillers, The Shining film was the only one he could remember hating. You’ve probably seen Kubrick’s interpretation, now read and discuss King’s equally epic version at this free book group.
August 10 at 7 p.m. Free. Brazos Bookstore, 2421 Bissonnet St. brazosbookstore.com
