Almost 45 years ago, Stanley Kubrick transformed the horror genre with his adaptation of Stephen King’s The Shining. Now, fans can explore the film’s extensive influence and its notorious production through a new two-book compendium titled Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, published by Taschen. This impressive collection spans nearly 1,400 pages and features contributions from renowned filmmakers, detailed behind-the-scenes insights, and much more. Scheduled for release on November 26, preorders are currently available with a $50 discount.
This monumental 1,396-page, two-volume set is meticulously edited by Lee Unkrich, the Academy Award-winning director known for titles like Toy Story 3 and Coco. The first volume includes reflections on the film’s significance by author J.W. Rinzler, alongside a foreword from celebrated director Steven Spielberg. Additionally, it offers exclusive insights through hundreds of hours of interviews with the cast and crew.
The second volume serves as a visual feast, featuring hundreds of photographs, concept art, letters, and in-depth examinations of deleted scenes, including production documents drawn from Kubrick’s collection. Both volumes are designed to evoke the aesthetic of The Shining’s haunting set design.
Originally released in 2023 as a limited collector’s box set of 1,000 copies priced at $2,500, the new retail version has been reformatted into a more accessible two-volume set, complete with an striking slipcase cover. While it carries a list price of $125, it can be preordered for just $76. With a preorder price guarantee, customers will not be charged until their order ships and will receive the lowest price available before launch.
The compendium is not Taschen’s first publication on Kubrick; The Stanley Kubrick Archives offers a comprehensive look into the director’s illustrious career. For a budget-friendly option, a compact 861-page edition of The Stanley Kubrick Archives is available for $15. Those seeking a more premium experience can opt for the larger 544-page coffee table edition for $58.
Fans of 2001: A Space Odyssey can also explore a detailed 527-page book dedicated to Kubrick’s adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke’s novel, alongside Taschen’s previous release of Kubrick’s photography titled Through a Different Lens.
The Shining continues to be hailed as one of the finest horror films ever made. Adapted from King’s novel, the 1980 film stars Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrence, a recovering alcoholic who becomes the winter caretaker of a remote hotel, unleashing a terrifying psychological descent into madness. Though initial reviews were mixed, The Shining’s legacy has grown, solidifying its position as a pillar of the horror genre, further cemented by its troubled production history.
For those new to The Shining or its sequel, Doctor Sleep, both films are now available on 4K Blu-ray at competitive prices. While Kubrick’s film has captivated audiences, Stephen King has famously expressed his discontent with the adaptation, which prompted him to produce a miniseries in 1997. Despite mixed reviews for the TV version, appreciation for Kubrick’s film has continued to blossom, overshadowing the miniseries, which received a revival on Blu-ray earlier this year.
For readers interested in King’s original novels, a variety of deals on hardcover and paperback editions, including a box set featuring The Shining, Doctor Sleep, and additional works by King, are available. While opinions may vary, The Shining is consistently recognized as a landmark of horror literature, and Doctor Sleep, published over 25 years later, remains a compelling continuation of a beloved classic.
