Kubrick vs Luhrmann - English

Stanley Kubrick was an extremely innovative director and filmmaker throughout the mid-late 20th century. Like all auteurs, there were certain things he did that were a staple in his films. For instance, his use of contrast. Whether black and white, or using primary colours, his use of contrasting colours throughout his films was extremely pleasing to the eye, and helped to create a clearer picture. He also frequently used a long tracking shot, this is to create dramatic tension. In fact, tension was a very important element in a Kubrick film. Kubrick used many techniques to help him build tension and emotion throughout his films, this added an aura of eeriness to his work. 

On the other hand, Baz Luhrmann, another innovative auteur, is often referred to as the anti-Kubrick. Where Kubrick is contrasting and eerie, Luhrmann is busy and energetic. Kubrick’s films are often called slow, whereas Luhrmann is faster paced, with loud and garish colours rather than Kubrick’s limited colour palette. Kubrick’s style is supposed to make the audience feel alone by isolating the main characters using camera shots, whereas Luhrmann creates ‘audience participation cinema’.   

References:

Papish, B. (2016). Everything you need to know about Stanley Kubrick’s cinematic style. https://www.highsnobiety.com/2016/08/19/stanley-kubrick/

Denton, S. (2016). Revisiting Baz Luhrmann’s cinematic style in the great Gatsby. https://www.filminquiry.com/revisiting-great-gatsby/