The Story Behind Eyes Wide Shut: Exploration of Desire, Fidelity, and Power

"Eyes Wide Shut" is a 1999 drama film directed, produced, and co-written by Stanley Kubrick, based on the 1926 novella Dream Story by Arthur Schnitzler. The film, set in and around New York City, follows the sexually charged adventures of Dr. Bill Harford, a New York City physician. His journey of self-discovery delves into themes of desire, trust, and the power dynamics within and outside of marriage.

Plot Summary

The story begins with Dr. Bill Harford, a middle-class physician in New York City, attending a party where his wife, Alice, confesses to having sexual fantasies about another man. This revelation sets off a night-long journey of sexual exploration and self-discovery. Bill navigates the city, encountering various characters and situations that challenge his perceptions of love and fidelity. As he delves deeper into his journey, Bill learns about a clandestine elite secret society that engages in masked sexual rituals. This society represents a hidden world of sexual excess and power dynamics, which starkly contrasts with Bill's seemingly stable middle-class life.

Themes and Motivation

Exploration of Sexuality

Kubrick's motivation in Eyes Wide Shut lies in his exploration of the complexities of human sexuality. The film questions societal norms and the boundaries of sexual relationships, examining how desire can complicate love and intimacy. Through Bill's journey, Kubrick illustrates the internal strife one can face when navigating the blurred lines between their fantasies and reality.

Marital Fidelity

The narrative highlights questions about trust and fidelity in marriage. Bill's journey reflects both his insecurities and the impact of his wife's fantasies on his perception of their relationship. The film raises important questions about what trust really means in a marriage and how one's expectations can be shattered by the unexpected.

Class and Power

The secret society in the film serves as a critique of the elite, exploring how power dynamics play out in sexual relationships. This society highlights the darker sides of human nature, often hidden from public view. Kubrick uses this society to challenge viewers' perceptions of class and the ways in which power can manifest in unexpected and often oppressive ways.

Reality vs. Fantasy

The film blurs the lines between dream and reality, with dreamlike sequences that challenge the audience's understanding of what is real. This ambiguity invites viewers to reflect on their own perceptions of life, desire, and relationship dynamics. Kubrick masterfully uses these dreamlike sequences to explore the thin line between what we imagine versus what actually exists, and how these two realms intersect in our lives.

Conclusion

Eyes Wide Shut is a powerful exploration of desire, fidelity, and the power dynamics that lie beneath the surface of every relationship. Through the character of Dr. Bill Harford, Kubrick provides a deep dive into the human psyche, challenging viewers to question their own perceptions and expectations. The film remains a masterpiece in its examination of these complex themes, inviting endless discussions and reflections on the nature of love, trust, and the human condition.