Stanley Kubrick’s Use of Symbolism in His Films: Phallic Symbols and Nudity
Stanley Kubrick’s Use of Symbolism in His Films: Phallic Symbols and Nudity
Stanley Kubrick, one of the most influential film directors of the 20th century, is known for his intricate use of symbolism in his movies. Specifically, his films often feature phallic symbols and nudity. This article delves into the reasons behind his choice to incorporate such elements into his works and provides a comprehensive analysis of the symbolism used by Kubrick.
Phallic Symbols in Dr. Strangelove
While it is often speculated that Kubrick deliberately included phallic symbols as a deliberate motif, the reality is somewhat different. Phallic symbols, like many symbols in art, are open to multiple interpretations and are often in the mind of the beholder. And sometimes, as George Santayana famously quipped, a cigar is just a cigar. However, in the case of Dr. Strangelove, the inclusion of these symbols is more about the intrinsic subject matter of the film.
Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb explicitly deals with the anxieties surrounding nuclear warfare and men's feelings of sexual inadequacy. The phallic symbols, such as the missile silos and the physical presence of strmilitary weapons, can be seen as exaggerations of this anxiety, symbolizing the utter destruction and masculinity of these weapons. Thus, the answer to why phallic symbols are found in Dr. Strangelove is clear—they are a direct reflection of the film's subject matter and the broader social anxieties surrounding the Cold War.
Nudity in Kubrick's Films
Nudity is another recurring theme in Kubrick's work. Notably, of the 12 feature films directed by Kubrick, seven were made during the era of the Hays Code, which strictly forbade nudity. Of the remaining five, only A Clockwork Orange and Eyes Wide Shut contain significant nudity.
A Clockwork Orange and the Subversion of Violence and Sexuality
A Clockwork Orange, based on the novel of the same name by Anthony Burgess, is an exploration of society's response to young men's desires for sex and violence. Though the amount of actual nudity in the film is limited, the rape scene in the novel (and subsequent film) is still shocking. This sequence represents a significant aspect of the film's exploration of themes like grotesque violence and flawed society.
Kubrick's decision to include nude scenes in A Clockwork Orange can therefore be understood within the context of the film's thematic concerns—subverting and examining the darker aspects of violence and sexuality.
Eyes Wide Shut and the Subtlety of Nudity
Eyes Wide Shut, on the other hand, deals directly with sexuality and marital fidelity. The film's themes are more adult and complex, making the presence of nudity a natural and necessary component. Kubrick, knowing well the impact of film on audiences, made the choice to include nudity that aligns with the film's themes of sexuality and the complexity of human relationships.
Therefore, the inclusion of nudity in Eyes Wide Shut is not gratuitous or merely for shock value, but rather a reflection of the film's subject matter and deeper exploration of sexual themes.
Symbolism and Archetypes
Kubrick was also enamored with pre-Christian archetypes and magical symbols. In his films, he incorporated symbols like the sun, moon, the phallus, and even Hieros Gamos (sacred marriage), to name a few. These symbols are powerful within the human psyche and play a crucial role in the films' overall meanings and impact.
The effectiveness of Kubrick's use of these symbols can be seen in the enduring popularity and critical acclaim of his films. They resonate deeply with audiences on an emotional and psychological level, reinforcing the messages and themes he intended to convey. Kubrick's understanding of these symbols suggests a complex and nuanced approach to filmmaking, one that sought to tap into the unconscious and tapping into the collective psyche.
The Influence of Kubrick on Audiences
The inclusion of phallic symbols and nudity in Kubrick's films undoubtedly had a profound impact on those who watched them. However, interpretations can vary widely based on individual perspectives and cultural backgrounds. Some may see these elements as explorations of human sexuality and societal anxieties, while others might view them as unnecessary or excessive.
Stanley Kubrick was always a polarizing figure, and his works reflect this. His films are often seen as esoteric and dense, making them open to multiple interpretations. For some, Kubrick is an artist to be admired for his technical mastery and artistic vision, while for others, his films might be considered confusing or even disturbing. Nevertheless, his works continue to fascinate and intrigue those who study and appreciate cinema.
Ultimately, the use of phallic symbols and nudity in Kubrick's films is best understood within the context of the films themselves. These elements are not random or superfluous but are integral to the messages and themes he sought to convey. The impact of these elements on audiences varies widely, but they consistently add depth and complexity to his works, making them enduring classics in the canon of film.