The Big Shave

The Big Shave is a surreal and unsettling short film directed by Stanley Kubrick, released in 1967. The movie's narrative revolves around a young man who enters a spotless, sterile bathroom with an obsessive focus on shaving. His goal is not just to eliminate his facial hair but also to strip away his very skin. This seemingly absurd quest sets the tone for an increasingly graphic and disturbing sequence of events. As the young man commences shaving, the camera focuses on the razor gliding across his face, capturing every hair, every scrape, and every trickle of blood that surfaces. The editing is deliberate and measured, emphasizing the mundane act of shaving and elevating it to an almost ritualistic level. The young man's intent becomes clear: he wants to remove not just his facial hair but the very markers of his individuality. One of the striking aspects of The Big Shave is its deliberate pacing and deliberate slow-motion sequences which heighten the tension and emphasize the young man's growing obsession with shaving. As the movie progresses, the camera lingers on the razor, capturing every detail, including the sound effects, which range from faint scratches to gurgling sounds, creating an almost sensory experience. The film's black-and-white cinematography adds to the stark, sterile atmosphere of the bathroom. Every surface is spotless, and the lighting is stark and unyielding, casting harsh shadows that accentuate the young man's actions. The overall effect is a dreamlike quality, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. The Big Shave raises questions about the nature of identity and how it is perceived through physical appearance. By gradually removing his skin, the young man attempts to shed his individuality, erasing his uniqueness and leaving him a blank slate. Is this an act of rebellion, a rejection of societal norms, or a desperate cry for attention? The movie leaves the viewer to ponder these questions as it hurtles towards its unnerving conclusion. Kubrick's direction is, as always, precise, deliberate, and unflinching. He employs long takes and carefully choreographs the sequence, emphasizing every cut, every scrape, and every drop of blood. The result is a visceral experience that draws the viewer into the young man's world, making them complicit in his descent into madness. The Big Shave is a work of cinematic art that defies easy interpretation. It is a critique of societal norms, a commentary on the human condition, and a bold, uncompromising vision of a world where the boundaries of reality are increasingly blurred. This 13-minute short film is a testament to Kubrick's mastery of storytelling and his unflinching commitment to exploring the dark corners of the human experience. Ultimately, The Big Shave is an unapologetic and uncompromising film that refuses to be constrained by conventional narrative or moral guidelines. Its graphic content, deliberate pacing, and unflinching gaze make it a challenging yet thought-provoking work that demands attention and reflection.