Introduction

This introductory chapter provides an overview of The Shining (1980), Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's bestselling novel of the same name. The Shining is widely acclaimed as one of the greatest horror movies ever made. However, it took time for the film to become recognised as the essential and effective horror movie it is regarded as today. For many critics, The Shining was simply not frightening. The re-evaluation that has taken place subsequently has, to some extent, sought beyond considerations of genre in highlighting the film's value, focusing on the adaptation of King's book, Kubrick's auteur status and filmmaking style, and analysis of its ‘deeper’ meanings, rather than situating it—as much of its audience has—in the context of horror cinema. These approaches are significant, and they offer useful frameworks for a closer look at the film, but it is important that they are considered in parallel with its position as a horror film. The book brings together these ideas to offer a study of The Shining in its rightful place. The chapter then presents the synopsis of the film and looks at considerations of The Shining in previous studies of the horror genre.