From an artistic point of view, I can certainly see the appeal of this movie. From its influence on media, as well.
But, to me personally, that's about it.
Very short summary:
- Very artistic movie that has very nice visuals, great use of classical music and use of sound or lack of sound to create an ominous atmosphere
- But sadly, extremely slow...everything. Which would be fine if it would lead to a satisfying, surprising conclusion. But ultimately the conclusion, also, is just an artistic one, and all possible story elements around HAL that could've been used...stay unused.
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Longer:
The visuals, especially considering its age, are impressive. Little details, especially in the beginning, that show us how communication, food and such things work in this vision of future are quite interesting and made me optimistic to where it would lead to.
Sure, the pacing was slow from the very beginning, I'm certain the first hour would be handled in today's age in 20 minutes, but hey, I don't mind a slow start and I'm used slower pacing from older films.
Then the middle part, everything involving HAL, which, I assume, is the most well-known part of the movie, even to those that haven't watched it.
It's slow, but interesting. So much potential: Does HAL make mistakes? Is everything planned? If he makes mistakes: why? What's his agenda? And is it HIS agenda? Very much potential along with his natural question in an unnatural, calming, constantly calm tone.
Many interesting things could come from this.
But sadly...they don't. The possibly dangerous parts are resolved quickly, the "secrets" are more confusing than shocking and the last 20 - 30 minutes of the movie are basically just an art piece you'd expect from a museum or theater. In both, good and bad ways.
As said in the beginning, from an artistic point of view, I like this movie. Really nice designs, lovely and strong use of classical music and the sound, or more often, lack of sound, creates a really interesting atmosphere fitting to the "vast emptiness of space" mood.
If that is what you want, it's quite impressive.
But if you want a story, twists and possibly complicated or interesting revelations...I don't see any of it. Everything about HAL and the monolith had potential for so many stories, but in the end the creators decided to end the movie on an artistic yet confusing scene that offers no real resolution of anything and a very long drawn-out way to reach it.
It's a pity, I would've liked more story around HAL.
So...watch it if you're into art and movie artistry, but don't expect to be moved by the story, if you are like me.