Stanley Kubrick's final film is streaming free on Tubi
Polygon
by Debopriyaa DuttaFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Stanley Kubrick's final film, *Eyes Wide Shut*, starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, is now streaming free on Tubi, offering viewers a chance to revisit this misunderstood classic. Despite its status as Kubrick's highest-grossing film at the box office, the movie received a lukewarm reception upon its 1999 release, earning a baffling D- on CinemaScore. This underwhelming response can be attributed to several factors: Kubrick's sudden death six days after screening what was believed to be the final cut, which fueled speculation about the film's completion and legacy. Additionally, Warner Bros.' marketing strategy, positioning the film as an erotic thriller, clashed with Kubrick's dark, psychological vision, leading to a mismatch between expectations and execution.
Kubrick's *Eyes Wide Shut* is deeply rooted in Arthur Schnitzler's novella *Dream Story*, which explores themes of infidelity and societal hypocrisy. While the director maintained the story's core, he reimagined it through his signature lens, crafting a surreal narrative that defies traditional storytelling. The film follows Dr. Bill Harford (Tom Cruise), a Manhattan psychologist whose encounter with an enigmatic woman at a masquerade ball triggers a nightmarish series of events. Kubrick's approach is unconventional, eschewing clear explanations in favor of a haunting, anxiety-inducing experience that leaves audiences questioning reality and morality.
The film's unique style—marked by long takes, intricate camera work, and symbolic imagery—reflects Kubrick's meticulous craftsmanship. Its exploration of power dynamics,羞辱, and human vulnerability resonates with themes often found in modern gaming narratives, where player choices and psychological depth are central to storytelling
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Originally published on Polygon on 2/20/2026