Stanley Kubrick's "Spartacus": A Misunderstood Epic

Often criticized as a failed attempt to craft a grandiose epic film by a director of Stanley Kubrick’s caliber, the 1960 film "Spartacus" is often overlooked. Critics and cinema-goers have been quick to judge it, but a closer examination reveals a film that, despite not being entirely in Kubrick’s control, still stands out as a cinematic masterpiece. In this article, we delve into the creation of Spartacus, the roles of key individuals, and why this film is still regarded as one of the best in its genre.

The Role of Stanley Kubrick

When discussing Spartacus, a common question that surfaces is whether Kubrick was the right choice for the project. Many argue that the film wasn’t up to par, possibly aligned more with what producers desired rather than Kubrick’s vision. However, this notion is far from accurate. Stanley Kubrick was brought in after the initial director, Anthony Mann, was removed after the first week of shooting due to creative differences and unrealistic demands. Despite not having full artistic control, Kubrick still managed to infuse the film with his unique cinematic touch.

Key Players and Their Influences

The making of "Spartacus" was a collaborative effort involving multiple key players. Kirk Douglas, the star of the film, played a significant role in the project's development. As the film’s star, Douglas had the final say on many aspects of the production, including locations, casting, and more. This meant that while Kubrick was the director, his creative dominance was curtailed. The film's cinematographer, Russell Metty, also holds a crucial position in the story. While Metty has been portrayed as an uncooperative and unhelpful figure, the reality is more nuanced.

Metty, although subjected to Kubrick’s directorial demands, was still a seasoned professional with over 40 credits to his name. Additionally, Kubrick, despite being a renowned cinematographer, had to work within the confines set by the producers. The producers wished to shoot the film in the US rather than in Europe, resulting in a compromise that saw the film partly filmed in California. Nevertheless, this didn’t dampen Kubrick’s desire to create an epic masterpiece. His influence is clearly evident in the film's structure and narrative pace.

The Cinematographic Achievements of "Spartacus"

Despite not having full control over the film, Kubrick managed to make "Spartacus" a standout in the genre of epic films. His cinematographic skills are evident in the film's breathtaking battle scenes and the grandeur of the Roman settings. A particularly noteworthy achievement is the film's use of cinematography. Metty's work, despite the challenges he faced, earned him an Academy Award for Best Cinematography in 1961.

Conclusion

Stanley Kubrick's "Spartacus" stands as a testament to the power of collaborative filmmaking. Although the project was not entirely in Kubrick's domain, his commitment to creating a grandiose epic is evident. The film's success is a result of the combined efforts of all its key players, including Kubrick, Metty, and Douglas. Far from reflecting any failure, "Spartacus" is a crucial addition to the catalog of epic films, a classic in the making.