Stanley Kubrick and the Sentimentality of A.I. Artificial Intelligence

It is often debated whether Stanley Kubrick, the iconic director known for his sophisticated and often cynical visual storytelling, would have approved of Steven Spielberg's adaptation of A.I. Artificial Intelligence. The surprising irony is that Spielberg was originally asked to direct A.I., a film for which Kubrick had been working for years before his untimely death. Despite the fact that Spielberg is known for his sentimental, heartwarming films, the final product is seen by many as a deeply sentimental, if underwhelming, film.

Stanley Kubrick's Enthusiasm for Steven Spielberg

Kubrick was initially excited about Spielberg directing A.I.. In a candid conversation, Kubrick is quoted as saying:

“I think Spielberg would be better suited for A.I. than I would be.”

While this statement could indeed be seen as a promotional tactic, it also reflects Kubrick's respect for Spielberg's ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Knowing both filmmakers, juxtaposing the two and understanding the extensive plans Kubrick had in place for the film, it is likely that the result was as close as possible to what Kubrick envisioned.

A Critique of A.I. Artificial Intelligence

Many critics and viewers believe that A.I. is one of the worst films ever made by a skilled director. The sentimentality at the heart of the material—which Kubrick, known for his lack of sentimentality, struggled to overcome—was embraced fully by Spielberg. It is often said that:

The fact that Kubrick tried and failed to make the film demonstrates to me one thing: that Kubrick, the least sentimental of all directors, could not get past the glutinous sentimentality at the core of the material, which Spielberg, a highly praised sentimental filmmaker, embraced wholeheartedly.

Given these perspectives, it is not surprising that Kubrick would have had a negative view of the final product. His inability to make the film and Spielberg's willingness to embrace its emotional core suggests a stark difference in their respective approaches to storytelling.

Stanley Kubrick's Approach to Film

Kubrick was known for his meticulous attention to detail, his cynical view of human nature, and his artistic disdain for sentimentality. His films, from Dr. Strangelove to A Clockwork Orange, often dealt with dark, complex, and even absurd themes. Kubrick's last project, Dogville, was a particularly harsh and unflinching look at human cruelty and societal structure.

In contrast, Spielberg is often praised for his ability to create emotionally resonant stories. Films like E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial and Saving Private Ryan showcase his talent for blending high action with heartfelt moments. However, the sentimentality in A.I. is a stark departure from this, leading many to criticize it as excessive.

Other Scary A.I. Films

Other films, such as Colossus: The Forbin Project, offer a more cynical and terrifying view of artificial intelligence. In Colossus, a supercomputer gains sentience and starts to take control over its creator and the world around it. This film examines the darker potential of artificial intelligence, where power and control become the central themes rather than affection and empathy.

While A.I. Artificial Intelligence may evoke deep emotions, it fails to deliver the same sense of cold, calculated dread that a film like Colossus does. This comparison highlights the stark difference between the intended messages of these two films and the sentiments they invoke.

In conclusion, while it is impossible to know for certain what Stanely Kubrick would have thought of A.I., the evidence points to a likely negative reaction based on his well-documented disdain for sentimentality in his own work. However, it is clear that A.I., despite its flaws, remains a significant entry in the canon of Spielberg's filmography, showcasing his ability to create emotionally rich but sometimes overwhelming narratives. Meanwhile, films like Colossus serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers and pitfalls that come with the unchecked pursuit of artificial intelligence and its consequences on humanity.

Keywords

Stanley Kubrick A.I. Artificial Intelligence Steven Spielberg Sentimentality