The availability of Stanley Kubrick’s final film, Eyes Wide Shut, on the Netflix streaming platform provides viewers with access to a complex psychological drama exploring themes of marital fidelity, sexual fantasy, and societal secrets. The film, starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, delves into the anxieties and vulnerabilities within a seemingly perfect marriage after one partner’s confession of suppressed desires.
Access to this film via streaming offers convenience and increased viewership. Its inclusion on a platform like Netflix makes it readily available to a wide audience, potentially introducing new viewers to Kubrick’s distinctive filmmaking style and stimulating discussion about the film’s challenging themes. Furthermore, this availability allows for repeated viewings and close analysis, contributing to a deeper understanding of the film’s intricate narrative and symbolic elements. The historical context of the film, released in 1999, adds another layer of interpretation considering societal attitudes toward sexuality and relationships at the time.
The following discussion will delve into aspects such as the film’s critical reception, its impact on popular culture, and the various interpretations of its ambiguous ending. It will also explore the reasons why this particular film continues to resonate with audiences and remains a subject of ongoing analysis and debate.
1. Streaming availability
The presence of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix significantly alters the landscape of film accessibility and viewing habits, impacting how a broader audience engages with Stanley Kubrick’s controversial final work. This accessibility presents both opportunities and potential challenges for the film’s reception and interpretation.
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Wider Audience Reach
Streaming on Netflix exposes Eyes Wide Shut to viewers who might not typically seek out art-house or classic cinema. This expanded reach can introduce new audiences to Kubrick’s distinctive filmmaking style and the film’s complex themes of marriage, desire, and societal anxieties. The implications include potentially diverse interpretations and critical evaluations beyond traditional film circles.
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Convenience and Repeat Viewings
The on-demand nature of Netflix allows viewers to watch Eyes Wide Shut at their convenience, facilitating repeated viewings. This is particularly relevant for a film as layered and symbolically rich as Kubrick’s, where nuanced details and subtle clues might be missed on an initial viewing. Repeated exposure can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the film’s artistry and thematic complexity.
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Contextual Considerations
While streaming enhances accessibility, it can also strip the film of its original theatrical context. The viewing experience on a personal screen may differ significantly from the intended cinematic presentation. This shift in viewing environment could potentially dilute the impact of Kubrick’s meticulous visual and auditory design, influencing viewer perception and interpretation.
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Algorithm-Driven Discovery
Netflix’s algorithms can promote Eyes Wide Shut to viewers based on their viewing history and preferences. This algorithmic curation can lead to unexpected discoveries, introducing the film to individuals who might not have otherwise encountered it. However, it also raises questions about the potential for biased exposure and the impact of algorithmic recommendations on shaping viewing habits and film appreciation.
In summary, the streaming availability of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix represents a double-edged sword. While it democratizes access and fosters potential for deeper engagement, it also necessitates a consideration of how the digital viewing environment shapes the film’s reception and interpretation, contrasting with its original theatrical release. This transformation impacts critical discourse, viewer experience, and ultimately, the film’s legacy.
2. Kubrick’s final film
The designation of Eyes Wide Shut as Stanley Kubrick’s final film holds substantial significance within the context of its presence on Netflix. This fact alone often draws viewers to the film, driven by curiosity about the culmination of Kubrick’s career and artistic vision. Knowing that this is his concluding work inherently influences the viewing experience, prompting audiences to seek deeper meaning and potentially over-analyze certain elements as they attempt to decipher a final statement from a renowned director. The film’s availability on Netflix amplifies this effect, making Kubrick’s legacy readily accessible for scrutiny and appreciation by a global audience. For example, many film scholars and critics specifically revisit this movie to explore if and how it is different from Kubricks other movies. Then these scholars and critics also publish it online. If the movie isnt available on Netflix, these activities would be hindered.
The connection between Eyes Wide Shut and its status as Kubrick’s last film also affects critical reception and interpretation. Reviews and analyses frequently frame the film as a culmination of recurring themes and stylistic choices evident throughout his filmography. The film’s ambiguous narrative, dreamlike atmosphere, and exploration of complex psychological states are often interpreted through the lens of Kubrick’s prior works, such as 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, and The Shining. The film’s availability on Netflix provides a convenient platform for viewers to revisit these earlier works, drawing comparisons and potentially uncovering new layers of meaning within Kubrick’s oeuvre. Also, availability of previous related film online allows fans to compare and contrast with this final work of Kubrick.
In conclusion, the accessibility of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix is inextricably linked to its position as Kubrick’s last film. This association amplifies the film’s allure, influences its interpretation, and contributes to its enduring legacy. The streaming platform offers a readily available means for viewers to engage with Kubrick’s final artistic statement, ensuring that it remains a subject of ongoing discussion, analysis, and appreciation. The accessibility also allows for new interpretations to be made based on previous works and make comparative analysis by many film scholars and critics in more frequent manner.
3. Psychological themes
The presence of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix amplifies the accessibility and subsequent analysis of its complex psychological themes. The film is deeply invested in exploring the subconscious anxieties and repressed desires that operate beneath the surface of seemingly stable relationships. This exploration centers on the psychological journey of Dr. Bill Harford, who confronts his own vulnerabilities and sexual insecurities after his wife’s revelation of a past attraction. The narrative unfolds as a descent into a nocturnal world of secrets and temptations, prompting a critical examination of the characters’ inner lives. The convenience of viewing the film on Netflix allows audiences to repeatedly engage with these psychological intricacies, fostering a deeper understanding of the underlying motivations and anxieties driving the characters’ actions. For example, viewers can pause and re-analyze scenes multiple times to appreciate subtle nuances in acting and scenery which may signal a deeper psychological tension.
The psychological themes within Eyes Wide Shut are not merely plot devices but fundamental elements of the film’s overall message. The exploration of marital fidelity, the power of suggestion, and the human capacity for both fantasy and betrayal are central to understanding the film’s narrative arc. Furthermore, the film’s dreamlike quality and ambiguous symbolism invite viewers to interpret the events through a psychological lens, considering the role of the unconscious and the subjective nature of reality. The film’s streaming availability has facilitated widespread discussion and analysis of these themes, with numerous online forums and academic articles dedicated to dissecting the psychological complexities of the characters and the narrative. For example, online communities dedicated to film analysis frequently host discussions where members deconstruct the film’s psychological symbolism, each offering unique perspectives and interpretations.
In summary, the accessibility of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix is intrinsically linked to a heightened awareness and engagement with its psychological themes. The streaming platform provides a convenient and accessible means for viewers to repeatedly examine the film’s exploration of marital anxieties, repressed desires, and the power of the subconscious. This availability not only broadens the film’s audience but also contributes to a deeper, more nuanced understanding of its psychological complexities, cementing its place as a significant work within the landscape of psychological cinema. The continued availability of the movie ensures more public discussion and scrutiny which leads to new perspectives.
4. Marriage and infidelity
The thematic core of Eyes Wide Shut, as it appears on Netflix, revolves significantly around the exploration of marriage and infidelity, both real and imagined. The film’s narrative is initiated by Alice Harford’s admission of a suppressed sexual fantasy involving another man, an event that precipitates a crisis of confidence and jealousy in her husband, Dr. Bill Harford. This confession acts as a catalyst, triggering Bill’s descent into a night of surreal encounters that test the boundaries of his own fidelity and expose the fragility of the Harfords’ marital bond. The availability of this film on Netflix allows viewers to readily access and repeatedly examine the intricate nuances of marital discord and the temptation of infidelity as depicted through Kubrick’s lens. As an example, it also allows easier scrutiny and comparison to other movies with the same theme, therefore giving access to broader and deeper insights.
The portrayal of marriage and infidelity in Eyes Wide Shut goes beyond a simple narrative of cheating or temptation. The film delves into the psychological underpinnings of desire, fantasy, and the power dynamics within a long-term relationship. It raises questions about the nature of commitment, the role of sexual desire in marriage, and the potential for hidden desires to disrupt even the most seemingly stable unions. The film’s ambiguous ending further emphasizes the complexities of these themes, leaving viewers to grapple with the unresolved questions about the true state of the Harfords’ marriage and the lasting impact of their experiences. The films exploration of the causes and effects of marital infidelity provides insights into real-world relationships, as the film explores the deep and disturbing roots of infidelity.
In conclusion, the significance of marriage and infidelity as a central component of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix cannot be overstated. The film uses these themes to explore the complexities of human relationships, the power of suggestion, and the potential for hidden desires to disrupt even the most seemingly stable unions. Its availability on Netflix ensures a wide audience can engage with these challenging and thought-provoking themes, prompting reflection on the nature of commitment, desire, and the fragile bonds that tie individuals together in marriage. The themes continue to resonate with audiences, making “Eyes Wide Shut Netflix” a relevant watch for any person interested in this theme.
5. Visual Symbolism
The availability of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix provides a convenient platform for the detailed examination of its pervasive visual symbolism. This cinematic technique is not merely ornamental but an integral component of the film’s narrative and thematic structure. Kubrick employs visual symbols to convey subconscious anxieties, repressed desires, and the underlying tensions within the characters’ relationships. For instance, the recurring motif of Christmas lights, juxtaposed with the Harfords’ marital unease, symbolizes the deceptive facade of warmth and happiness masking deeper emotional turmoil. The masks worn at the Somerton estate further represent the concealment of true identities and the superficiality of societal interactions. Netflix’s accessibility allows viewers to repeatedly scrutinize these visual cues, enabling a deeper understanding of their symbolic weight and their contribution to the film’s overall psychological impact.
The significance of visual symbolism within Eyes Wide Shut is amplified by Kubrick’s meticulous attention to detail and the film’s dreamlike atmosphere. The deliberate use of color, lighting, and composition creates a visual language that complements the dialogue and narrative. The predominance of red hues in scenes involving sexual temptation or moral compromise suggests a connection to passion, danger, and forbidden desires. The precise framing of characters and objects within the mise-en-scne reinforces their symbolic meaning and their relationship to the overarching themes. For instance, the careful placement of mirrors throughout the Harford’s apartment reflects their fractured identities and the distorted perceptions of reality. Furthermore, Netflix’s streaming quality facilitates a close analysis of these visual elements, revealing subtle nuances that may be missed during a theatrical viewing or on lower-resolution formats.
In summary, the availability of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix provides a unique opportunity to dissect its rich visual symbolism. Kubrick’s strategic use of imagery serves as a powerful storytelling device, enriching the narrative and enhancing its psychological depth. The streaming platform’s accessibility and high-quality presentation allow viewers to fully appreciate the complexity and artistry of Kubrick’s visual language, contributing to a more profound understanding of the film’s themes and its enduring impact. The challenge lies in discerning the intended meaning behind these symbols, given Kubrick’s deliberate ambiguity, inviting ongoing interpretation and scholarly debate.
6. Critical reception
The availability of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix has directly influenced the critical reception and ongoing analysis of the film. Increased accessibility through streaming has fostered wider discussion, revisited interpretations, and renewed interest in critical assessments of Kubrick’s final work.
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Accessibility and Renewed Scrutiny
Netflix provides a convenient platform for critics, scholars, and casual viewers to repeatedly access and reassess Eyes Wide Shut. This ease of access contributes to a higher volume of critical analyses, both professional and amateur, influencing public perception and stimulating diverse interpretations of the film’s complex themes and ambiguous ending. The film’s presence on Netflix also makes it readily available to a new generation of film critics and viewers who may not have had the opportunity to see it in theaters or on physical media.
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Impact on Interpretations and Re-evaluations
Streaming availability facilitates comparative analysis and re-evaluation of existing critical assessments. Critics can easily reference specific scenes or sequences, supporting their arguments with direct examples from the film. This ability to engage closely with the text has led to more nuanced and in-depth analyses of the film’s themes, symbolism, and visual style. For example, critics are now able to immediately check each other’s claims because every users have same accessibility.
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Polarizing Opinions and Ongoing Debate
Eyes Wide Shut was met with mixed reviews upon its initial release, and its presence on Netflix has not resolved the polarized opinions surrounding the film. Some critics continue to praise Kubrick’s masterful direction and the film’s exploration of complex psychological themes, while others remain critical of its pacing, narrative ambiguity, and perceived lack of emotional resonance. The film’s availability on a streaming platform amplifies these existing debates, as viewers are more likely to share their opinions and engage in discussions online.
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Influence of Online Communities and Fan Theories
Netflix’s platform enables the proliferation of online communities and fan theories dedicated to Eyes Wide Shut. These communities provide a space for viewers to share their interpretations, analyze specific scenes, and debate the film’s meaning. While some of these theories are highly speculative, they contribute to the ongoing discussion and can even influence professional critical analysis. The availability of the film on Netflix allows these communities to thrive, fostering a sense of collective engagement and intellectual exploration.
In conclusion, the presence of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix has significantly impacted its critical reception by increasing accessibility, facilitating comparative analysis, amplifying existing debates, and fostering the growth of online communities. These factors have collectively contributed to a more nuanced and diverse understanding of Kubrick’s final film, ensuring that it remains a subject of ongoing discussion and scholarly inquiry.
7. Accessibility
The inclusion of Eyes Wide Shut within the Netflix library directly correlates with increased accessibility to the film for a global audience. Prior to its availability on this streaming platform, viewership was primarily limited to theatrical releases, physical media purchases, or rentals. These access points presented geographical limitations, cost barriers, and temporal constraints that effectively restricted the number of potential viewers. Netflix, conversely, offers subscription-based access to a vast catalog of films, including Eyes Wide Shut, removing several of these obstacles. This enhanced availability has broadened the demographic exposed to Kubrick’s work, influencing critical discourse and popular understanding of the film. For example, individuals in regions with limited access to traditional cinemas now have the opportunity to experience Eyes Wide Shut from their homes, prompting wider discussion and diverse interpretations across various cultural contexts.
The practical significance of this increased accessibility extends beyond mere convenience. The availability of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix allows for repeated viewings, facilitating deeper engagement with the film’s complex themes, intricate symbolism, and nuanced performances. Scholars, film students, and casual viewers alike can readily revisit specific scenes, analyze Kubrick’s directorial techniques, and formulate their own interpretations. This ease of access has fueled the proliferation of online discussions, critical essays, and fan theories, enriching the intellectual landscape surrounding the film. Additionally, Netflix’s recommendation algorithms expose Eyes Wide Shut to viewers who may not have actively sought it out, potentially sparking an interest in Kubrick’s filmography and art-house cinema in general. A practical example is the use of the film in film studies courses which can now be conveniently assigned as homework or referred to for individual research without requiring students to visit libraries or purchase copies.
In summary, the accessibility afforded by Netflix has fundamentally altered the landscape of Eyes Wide Shut viewership. While previously constrained by limitations inherent to traditional distribution methods, the film now enjoys unprecedented reach and availability, fostering a wider understanding, sparking ongoing discussions, and ensuring its continued relevance in contemporary cinematic discourse. The challenge remains in navigating the potential for misinterpretation or superficial engagement due to the sheer volume of content available on the platform. It is also important to consider whether this easy access affects the perception of the film’s significance as a significant artistic work. But with increased reach, there also exists the hope of greater impact and awareness.
8. Viewer Interpretation
The availability of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix significantly impacts viewer interpretation due to the platform’s accessibility and the unique viewing habits it fosters. Increased access encourages a wider range of interpretations, as individuals from diverse backgrounds and with varying levels of film literacy encounter Kubrick’s work. The film’s complex symbolism and ambiguous narrative lend themselves to multiple readings, which are amplified by the ease of access to online forums and critical analyses. As an example, the masked ball scene can be interpreted as a commentary on societal decadence, a representation of suppressed desires, or a conspiratorial gathering, depending on the viewer’s perspective and background knowledge. The ability to rewatch the film repeatedly on Netflix allows viewers to refine their interpretations over time, deepening their engagement with the material.
Viewer interpretation becomes a crucial component of the Eyes Wide Shut Netflix experience. The platform facilitates not only access to the film itself but also a wealth of supplemental material, including critical reviews, scholarly articles, and fan theories. This readily available information influences how viewers approach the film, shaping their initial impressions and guiding their subsequent analyses. For example, a viewer who reads a critical essay highlighting the film’s psychological themes may be more attuned to the characters’ subconscious motivations. Similarly, exposure to online discussions can introduce viewers to alternative interpretations and challenge their own assumptions. The practical significance of this interplay between accessibility and interpretation lies in the film’s continued relevance as a subject of intellectual inquiry and artistic appreciation. Netflix turns every user into a potential film critic.
In summary, the connection between viewer interpretation and Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix is characterized by a dynamic interplay of accessibility, diverse perspectives, and readily available supplemental information. While Netflix democratizes access to the film, it also creates a unique viewing environment that shapes how audiences engage with and interpret Kubrick’s challenging work. Challenges lie in discerning informed interpretations from those based on superficial engagement, but the overall effect is a richer and more nuanced understanding of the film’s artistic and thematic complexities. The open debate about Eyes Wide Shut Netflix will continue for years to come.
9. Platform convenience
The availability of Eyes Wide Shut via Netflix is inextricably linked to the concept of platform convenience. This accessibility factor directly influences the film’s viewership and subsequent engagement. The streaming platform’s user-friendly interface, coupled with its on-demand nature, eliminates traditional barriers to accessing cinematic content. Viewers are no longer constrained by theatrical release schedules, physical media availability, or rental deadlines. This ease of access promotes repeated viewings and encourages a more casual exploration of the film’s complex themes and intricate details. For instance, a viewer may pause, rewind, and re-analyze specific scenes multiple times, facilitating a deeper understanding of Kubrick’s visual symbolism and narrative ambiguity. The practical significance lies in the democratization of access to a film that might otherwise be confined to a niche audience.
The impact of platform convenience extends beyond mere accessibility; it shapes the context within which viewers encounter Eyes Wide Shut. The streaming environment, characterized by its personalized recommendations and algorithm-driven curation, influences audience expectations and viewing habits. A viewer encountering the film through Netflix’s “recommended for you” feature may approach it with different preconceived notions compared to someone actively seeking it out through traditional channels. Furthermore, the ability to watch Eyes Wide Shut on a variety of devices, from smartphones to large-screen televisions, transforms the viewing experience. While a theatrical screening offers an immersive, communal experience, streaming facilitates individual, private encounters with the film, potentially altering its perceived impact and emotional resonance. The convenience of access also allows users to easily cross-reference online information such as critic reviews and fan theories which informs their understanding of the movie, giving them broader perspectives.
In conclusion, platform convenience constitutes a critical component of the Eyes Wide Shut Netflix phenomenon. While the film’s inherent artistic merit and thematic complexity remain paramount, the ease with which viewers can access and engage with it through the streaming platform significantly influences its viewership, interpretation, and overall cultural impact. The challenge lies in discerning the extent to which this convenience shapes the film’s reception and whether it ultimately enhances or diminishes the viewing experience. Nevertheless, it is undeniable that Netflix’s platform convenience has fundamentally altered the way audiences interact with Eyes Wide Shut, ensuring its continued relevance in the digital age. The ease of access enables a larger reach and sustained interaction with the movie.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut and its availability on the Netflix streaming platform.
Question 1: Is Eyes Wide Shut currently available on Netflix?
Availability varies by region. Netflix’s content library differs depending on geographical location due to licensing agreements. Check the Netflix platform in one’s specific region to confirm its presence.
Question 2: Why is the film considered controversial?
The film explores themes of marital infidelity, sexual fantasy, and societal secrets, which can be considered provocative. Its explicit content and ambiguous narrative have sparked debate among viewers and critics.
Question 3: What is the significance of this film being Kubrick’s last?
As Kubrick’s final work, the film holds particular interest for those studying his filmography. It invites interpretations about the director’s artistic vision and recurring themes throughout his career. Many see it as the culmination of many recurring theme from his earlier works.
Question 4: How does streaming availability impact the film’s interpretation?
Streaming provides greater accessibility and facilitates repeated viewings, potentially leading to more nuanced interpretations. It also allows for easier access to critical analyses and fan theories, influencing viewer understanding.
Question 5: Are there different versions of the film available?
The theatrical release of Eyes Wide Shut included minor alterations to obscure explicit content in some regions. It is advisable to verify with specific platform if there are any alternations.
Question 6: What are the key themes explored in the film?
The film delves into themes of marriage, infidelity, desire, societal hypocrisy, and the subconscious. It prompts viewers to consider the complexities of human relationships and the hidden aspects of societal structures.
In summary, Eyes Wide Shut‘s presence on Netflix provides access to a complex and often debated film. The information provided aims to address common inquiries and facilitate a more informed viewing experience.
The subsequent section will explore further resources and related materials for those seeking to delve deeper into the analysis of Eyes Wide Shut.
Navigating Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix: Enhanced Viewing Tips
The following recommendations aim to enrich the viewing experience of Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut on the Netflix platform, fostering a deeper appreciation of its complexities.
Tip 1: Contextualize Kubrick’s Oeuvre: Before viewing, familiarize oneself with Kubrick’s previous films, such as 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, and The Shining. Understanding his signature style, thematic concerns, and visual techniques will enhance comprehension of Eyes Wide Shut.
Tip 2: Pay Attention to Visual Symbolism: Kubrick meticulously employs visual symbolism throughout the film. Note recurring motifs, color palettes, and compositional choices, as they often convey underlying meanings and thematic resonances. For instance, the recurring presence of Christmas lights can symbolize the superficial warmth masking deeper anxieties.
Tip 3: Analyze the Soundtrack: The film’s soundtrack is integral to creating its unsettling atmosphere. Pay close attention to the use of diegetic and non-diegetic music, as well as sound design, to understand how they contribute to the overall mood and thematic development.
Tip 4: Explore Different Interpretations: Given the film’s ambiguous narrative, it is beneficial to explore various critical interpretations and fan theories. Online forums, scholarly articles, and film analyses offer diverse perspectives that can enrich one’s understanding.
Tip 5: Consider the Film’s Historical Context: Eyes Wide Shut was released in 1999, amidst evolving societal attitudes towards sexuality and relationships. Understanding this historical context can provide insights into the film’s thematic concerns and its relevance to contemporary audiences.
Tip 6: View Multiple Times: Due to its complexity, Eyes Wide Shut benefits from repeated viewings. Each subsequent viewing may reveal new layers of meaning and previously unnoticed details.
Tip 7: Subtitles On: Considering that dialogue may be difficult to understand due to background noise, streaming service’s subtitling can greatly increase understanding.
By incorporating these recommendations, viewers can enhance their engagement with Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix, gaining a more profound appreciation of Kubrick’s artistry and the film’s enduring themes.
The article concludes with a brief summary of key points and potential areas for future exploration.
Conclusion
This exploration of Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix has revealed the multifaceted impact of streaming availability on a complex cinematic work. The accessibility afforded by the platform has demonstrably broadened the film’s audience, fueled critical debate, and fostered diverse interpretations of its psychological themes and visual symbolism. The convenience of on-demand viewing, however, also raises questions about the context in which viewers engage with Kubrick’s final film, potentially altering its perceived impact and emotional resonance. The very fact that the search term ” eyes wide shut netflix” generates so many results for discussion and academic explorations proves its importance to film audience.
As streaming continues to reshape the landscape of film distribution and consumption, it is crucial to consider the implications for both classic and contemporary cinema. Further research should examine the long-term effects of platform accessibility on critical reception, audience engagement, and the enduring legacy of significant cinematic works. Understanding these dynamics is essential for preserving the integrity and promoting a deeper appreciation of film as an art form. With the film being more accessible to the public, this also presents the opportunity to raise discussions and awareness regarding psychological theme or symbolisms to larger and more diverse audience.
