It’s hard to believe that a horror cinema masterpiece like Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining opened to mixed reviews, with outlets like Variety calling out Jack Nicholson’s “jumpy” performance for “[destroying] all that was so terrifying about Stephen King’s bestseller.” The 1980 film was also nominated for two Razzies — for worst director and worst actress, awarded to the unfairly maligned Shelley Duvall. Contemporary audiences have a different and positive take on the chilling tale, and the film’s psychological and supernatural thrills have become embedded into the American subconscious. This month marked the 35th anniversary of The Shining. We’re celebrating with some fantastic behind-the-scenes photos that reveal the dedication, artistry, and antics that went into the making of the movie.
“Lisa and Louise Burns, who played the Grady Twins in The Shining, pose in their costumes outside the film’s Wardrobe Department.
Lisa and Louise hated the dresses, much preferring to run around Elstree Studios in jeans and t-shirts.
(photo courtesy the Burns family)”
“Actor Scatman Crothers on the Colorado Lounge set of The Shining.
(Photo courtesy Kathleen Dolan, who was actor Jack Nicholson’s assistant during production.)”
“Vivian at EMI studio in her cutting room for Making The Shining, using a 16mm Steenbeck, 1980
*Picture taken by Stanley”
“Actor Joe Turkel and director Stanley Kubrick on the Gold Room set of The Shining.”
“Actor Jack Nicholson and Director Stanley Kubrick review material on a video monitor on the Lobby set of The Shining. Actor Scatman Crothers (or his stand-in) stands in the background.”
“Director Stanley Kubrick sets up a shot of the Hedge Maze model on the Lobby set of The Shining.”
“Director Stanley Kubrick lines up a shot of actors Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall on the Colorado Lounge set of The Shining, as Director of Photography John Alcott and Camera Operator Kelvin Pike look on.”
“The Steadicam rests on its rack outside the exterior Hedge Maze set of The Shining at MGM Elstree Studios.”
“Actor Jack Nicholson reading between takes on the set of The Shining.”
