On 31st October—Halloween night—film lovers and horror enthusiasts are in for a treat as Cheltenham International Film Festival presents a special screening of Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece, The Shining.

Starring Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duval, and based on Stephen King’s chilling novel, this classic film has haunted audiences for decades with it’s eerie atmosphere, psychological tension, unforgettable performances and memorable film sets, notably the Overlook Hotel.

Set in the remote, snowbound hotel, The Shining tells the story of a family whose winter isolation takes a terrifying turn. Jack Torrance, played by Nicholson, slowly descends into madness, while his son Danny, gifted with psychic abilities, experiences disturbing visions of the hotel’s dark and violent history. As Jack’s grip on reality crumbles, the family’s fight for survival escalates into one of the most tense and visually stunning climaxes in horror cinema.

Often hailed as one of the greatest horror films of all time, Kubrick’s adaptation of The Shining is celebrated not only for its gripping narrative but also for its set design and hauntingly iconic locations, such as the infamous corridors lined with the hypnotic Hicks Hexagon carpet.

As a special highlight of the evening, Paula Benson of Film and Furniture will be providing an introduction to the film, focusing on its influential production design, locations, and the aesthetic choices that have made The Shining a visual masterpiece. From the design of the Overlook Hotel’s interiors to the significance of specific décor elements like the infamous carpet, Benson will offer unique insights into how Kubrick’s design choices contribute to the film’s lasting impact.

What? The Shining screening with design-focused talk

When? 31st October 2024. 7.30pm

Where? Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ, UK

Get your tickets: Tickets for The Shining Screening