Guide Note: 2001: A Space Odyssey is Stanley Kubrick's most celebrated and puzzled-over films. At the time of its release in 1968, critics contended that it was masterpiece, while others simply called it a mess. Today, it's recognized as one of the best films of all time. 2001 was also the only one of his films to garner an Academy Award, that being for its groundbreaking visual effects.
Fast Facts:
- Released in 1968
- Cost $12 million to make
- Nominated for 4 Academy Awards
- Grossed over $56 million domestically
- Based primarily on Arthur C. Clarker's short story, The Sentinel
- Spawned one sequel, 2010: The Year We Make Contact