“Barry Lyndon”: Kubrick’s 18th Century Epic
Stanley Kubrick’s 1975 film “Barry Lyndon” is an adaptation of William Makepeace Thackeray’s novel. It portrays the rise and fall of Redmond Barry, a young Irishman who becomes entwined in the British aristocracy.
Barry’s journey takes him from a duel in his homeland to the Prussian army during the Seven Years’ War. His exploits as a gambler in elite European circles pave the way for his marriage to Lady Lyndon, for her fortune. However, her son despises him, leading to a clash for power and acceptance.
After the success of “2001” and “A Clockwork Orange,” “Barry Lyndon” faced mixed responses with its restrained tone. Although it received several Oscar nominations and won for cinematography, art direction, and costumes, it was a box office failure.
However, over time, the film has gained recognition as a significant achievement in Kubrick’s career, solidifying its place among his greatest works.
