This is Science Fiction at its very best. Kubrick became one of my favourite Directors after I watched The Shining, and every subsequent viewing of his films reinforces this. His films are successful as they provoke thought and participation. 2001 is beautiful to watch and for a film made in 1968 it has some incredible effects that still look very good today. I am watching this again on Blu Ray and it is all the more breathtaking. One thing I am always astounded with is how Kubrick captures the vast and consuming silence of space. The music and sounds create a perfect mood and are a vitally important part in the experience of this film. In a world where we have come to expect Hollywood to spoon feed its audiences - it is a pleasure to see such success for a film that leaves the audience in charge to draw their own conclusions. This is a perfect example of quality and visionary filmmaking.