Stanley Kubrick‘s science fiction masterpiece 2001: A Space Odyssey still manages to be the zenith of cinematic experience 44 years after its release.

Loosely adapted from the Arthur C. Clarke short story The Sentinel, the film tells two stories of man's experience with technology at different ends of the spectrum. The first shows the dawn of man as he first discovers tools. The second is set in the year 2001 (which was 33 years into the future when the film was made). Technology has advanced to the point that our main character, astronaut David Bower (Keir Dullea) is forced to fight against the computer, HAL 9000, which is in charge of running his spaceship. HAL has managed to develop his own consciousness. As the film proceeds, we start to question the complex relationship between human beings and the technology we have created.

The film is Kubrick's tour de force, with his reputation as a perfectionist being well and truly established. The awe-inspiring shots of spaceships floating through the universe, combined with epic classical scores, are iconic cinematic images. The special effects shots created by Douglas Trumbell still manage to stand the test of time, along with the famous 'star gate' sequence. There should also be a mention for the exquisite set design - and in particular, of the spaceship interiors, which present an extraordinary vision for the future of mankind.

Before 2001, the science fiction genre's attempt to discuss major themes was thwarted by its kitsch special effects. Not any more. The film changed the way people viewed sci-fi and the respect they gave it. Kubrick's immaculate direction produced a film that is immense in every department. If there was ever a film made for the big screen, 2001: A Space Odyssey is it.