Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” (1980) is a psychological horror film based on Stephen King’s novel of the same name. It follows Jack Torrance, an aspiring writer and recovering alcoholic, who takes on the job of winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel. He brings along his wife, Wendy, and son, Danny, who possesses “the shining,” a psychic ability. As the winter progresses, the hotel’s sinister influence drives Jack into madness.
Movie Scene Device Example Jack typing “All work and no play” Repetition Danny chanting “Redrum” Repetition
Movie Scene Device Example Jack’s interaction with Grady in the bathroom Irony The hotel’s luxurious exterior vs. its sinister history Irony
Movie Scene Device Example The elevator blood scene Imagery The decaying woman in Room 237 Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example Jack’s descent into madness Metaphor The Overlook Hotel as a character Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example The maze Motif The photographs of past caretakers Motif
Movie Scene Device Example Jack’s monologues Stream of Consciousness Danny’s inner dialogue with Tony Stream of Consciousness
Movie Scene Device Example The final chase through the maze Suspense The music and sound design throughout the film Suspense
Jack Torrance
Device Explanation Foreshadowing Jack’s early interactions hint at his potential for violence. Irony Jack’s role as a caretaker who ultimately destroys.
Wendy Torrance
Device Explanation Imagery Wendy’s fragile state is depicted through her wide-eyed, fearful expressions. Symbolism Wendy as a symbol of innocence and victimhood.
Danny Torrance
Device Explanation Foreshadowing Danny’s visions predict the horrors to come. Metaphor Danny’s “shining” represents intuition and awareness.
Character Dynamics
Device Explanation Conflict The tension between Jack and Wendy drives the narrative . Contrast Danny’s innocence contrasts with Jack’s descent into madness.
Isolation
Device Explanation Setting The remote location of the Overlook Hotel emphasizes isolation. Imagery Empty hallways and vast, empty spaces reinforce loneliness.
Madness
Device Explanation Foreshadowing Early signs of Jack’s instability hint at his breakdown. Repetition The recurring phrase “All work and no play…” signifies Jack’s deteriorating mind.
The Supernatural
Device Explanation Symbolism The Overlook Hotel represents evil and the supernatural. Imagery Ghostly apparitions and visions highlight the supernatural elements.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Foreshadowing Music and Sound Eerie music builds anticipation and hints at future events. Symbolism Set Design The maze and hotel interiors symbolize Jack’s mind and the hotel’s complexity. Imagery Cinematography Vivid and unsettling visuals enhance the horror .
Scene: The Blood Elevator
YouTube Link: Blood Elevator Scene
Scene Breakdown : The elevator doors opening to a flood of blood is a powerful image that symbolizes the horror and violence lurking within the Overlook Hotel. This scene uses vivid imagery to shock the audience and foreshadow the chaos to come.
Interactive Quiz
What literary device is primarily used in the “All work and no play” scene?
How does the film use foreshadowing ?
a) Through Jack’s early behaviors
b) Via the setting of the hotel
c) Through musical cues
d) All of the above
What does the maze symbolize?
a) Confusion
b) Isolation
c) Jack’s mind
d) All of the above
Which character represents innocence?
a) Jack Torrance
b) Wendy Torrance
c) Danny Torrance
d) Lloyd the Bartender
Answers : 1-b, 2-d, 3-d, 4-c
