One of Stanley Kubrick's most essential films, Barry Lyndon is a fascinating take on the rags to riches story. The beautiful Cinematography and engaging examination of its lead character make this essential cinema for anyone who loves Kubrick's work.
The film follows the misadventures of Irish-born Redmond Barry as he navigates various situations and positions throughout mid-18th century Europe. These events include his time in the British army during the Seven Years' War, participating in duels, and marrying a wealthy widow to acquire her wealth.
What makes the film such a fascinating tale is how its title character progresses through the movie. As Roger Ebert said in his thoughts "He is a man to whom things happen". This ranges from big events such as Barry shooting a British captain in a duel, to small events like Barry being robbed by highwaymen. All of these events influence the man Barry later becomes and the positions he ascends to. This all makes Barry a relatable protagonist despite some of his questionable behavior throughout the film, it also helps that it's brought to life by a great performance by Ryan O'Neal. Barry can best be described as a leaf in the wind blowing through until it simply stops. Even by the end when Barry seemingly achieves his goals by marrying rich widow Nora and inheriting her deceased husband's land and title, Barry's indulgences doom this seemingly happy ending for him. Throughout the marriage, Barry wastes his newfound wealth and his marriage to Nora is an unhappy one. His stepson Charles despises Barry and this mutual disdain becomes greater once Barry takes a son of his own whom he spoils.
This all leads to disaster for Barry after his son dies in a horse-riding accident which pushes Barry into alcoholism and further ruins his fiancees and social standing. After being shot in the leg in a duel against Charles despite deliberately firing his shot into the ground in an attempt to abort the conflict. Barry loses his leg as a result and Charles takes over the estate. Barry leaves England and spends the rest of his years gambling, something he was doing before his marriage to Nora. So, much like a leaf in the wind, Barry had his highs and lows. But the lows eventually become too much for him and the wind left Barry in the dust only to be forgotten.
Stanley Kubrick also uses the period setting to the best of his abilities, possibly crafting his most beautiful-looking film. There are various shots in Barry Lyndon that look like a painting from that period. This beauty throughout the film is largely due to Kubrick's choice to shoot many scenes using natural light, giving the film's unique look. This led to cinematographer John Alcott winning a well-deserved Oscar. It just isn't a Kubrick film without innovative camera work.
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