Occult Symbolism in Stanley Kubrick’s “Eyes Wide Shut”

Stanley Kubrick, the legendary filmmaker, was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his thought-provoking storytelling. One of his final works, “Eyes Wide Shut,” released in 1999, is a haunting and enigmatic film that delves into the dark underbelly of society. While the movie explores themes of sexuality, desire, and secrecy, it also incorporates elements of occult symbolism that have captivated audiences and sparked countless interpretations. In this article, we will delve into the occult symbolism present in “Eyes Wide Shut” and analyze its possible meanings.

The Mystery of the Masked Cult

A key aspect of “Eyes Wide Shut” is the secret society depicted in the film, which operates behind closed doors, hidden from the public eye. The members of this cult don elaborate masks and engage in mysterious rituals, evoking a sense of intrigue and secrecy. This secretive nature is reminiscent of occult practices, where rituals and ceremonies are often performed in secluded settings, away from prying eyes. The masks themselves carry symbolic significance, representing the concealment of one’s true identity, the ability to adopt a new persona, and the transformative power that lies within the occult realm.

The Red Cloak and the Scarlet Woman: Temptation and Transformation

Throughout “Eyes Wide Shut,” the recurring presence of a mysterious man in a red cloak adds another layer of occult symbolism. The color red, often associated with passion, desire, and intense emotions, plays a significant role in the film.

In “Eyes Wide Shut,” most of the important women have red hair:

• Bill’s wife Alice is a tall, skinny redhead with wavy hair.
• His seven-year-old daughter Helena, who has straight red hair.
• Nuala, one of the fashion models at Zieglers’ party.
• The other fashion model seems to also be a red head, though of a lighter shade.
• Mandy, the hooker who overdoses in Ziegler’s bathroom.
• Mrs. Ziegler, an attractive, older redhead.
• The girl whose dad was the bearded owner of Rainbow Fashions–seems to have brownish blonde hair with a reddish tint.
• A prostitute named Domino, another tall, skinny redhead.
• Her roommate, Sally, is another redhead.
• The masked Mystery Woman who “redeems” Bill.
• Another masked beauty who propositions him for sex before the Mystery Woman pulls him away.

Any and all of these women can easily be seen to represent different stages, or aspects of the Scarlet Woman. They can even be viewed as a single thematic entity:

The Scarlet Woman Archetype

As the Scarlet Woman, she serves as a symbol of initiation, guiding Dr. Harford toward a deeper understanding of his own desires and the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface of his seemingly ordinary existence. Her appearance in various scenes, often accompanied by masked figures and ritualistic settings, implies her role as a conduit between the mundane world and the occult realm.

The scarlet woman represents the concept of duality. In occult symbolism, duality refers to the complementary forces of yin and yang, light and dark, masculine and feminine. In the film, she embodies this duality, simultaneously alluring and dangerous, drawing Dr. Harford into a world of both pleasure and peril. Her seductive nature invites him to embrace his own inner contradictions and explore the depths of his desires.

Moreover, the Scarlet Woman represents the transformative journey of the seeker. In occult traditions, initiation often involves a process of shedding old beliefs and identities to embrace new perspectives and ways of being. The woman in the red cloak guides Dr. Harford through a series of encounters that challenge his preconceptions and force him to confront his own vulnerabilities and limitations.

Her presence also highlights the theme of sexual exploration and liberation. Sexuality has long been associated with occult practices as a means to access heightened states of consciousness and spiritual transcendence. The red headed women embody this aspect, inviting Dr. Harford to explore the boundaries of his own desires and challenge societal taboos surrounding sexuality.

The Labyrinthine Journey

As the film progresses, the protagonist, Dr. Bill Harford, finds himself embarking on a labyrinthine journey, both physically and metaphorically. The use of mazes, winding corridors, and hidden passageways is a recurring motif in the film, symbolizing the complex and enigmatic nature of the occult. In occultism, the labyrinth represents the journey of the seeker, navigating through various trials and tribulations in pursuit of esoteric knowledge. Kubrick’s meticulous attention to detail in the set design and the deliberate placement of characters within these labyrinthine spaces heightens the sense of mystery and disorientation experienced by the protagonist.

Dreams and Altered States of Consciousness

Dreams and altered states of consciousness play a crucial role in “Eyes Wide Shut.” The film blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, creating an atmosphere of ambiguity and uncertainty. Occult practices often involve the exploration of altered states of consciousness, such as meditation, trance, and lucid dreaming, as a means to connect with hidden realms or higher dimensions of existence. The dreamlike sequences in the film may represent the protagonist’s descent into the subconscious mind and his encounters with the occult forces that lie beneath the surface of his everyday life.

Sacrifice and Ritualistic Imagery

Ritualistic imagery and sacrificial undertones are prevalent throughout “Eyes Wide Shut.” The film showcases masked orgies, symbolically charged settings, and references to ancient rituals. These elements align with occult practices that involve ceremonies, often with symbolic sacrifices, to attain spiritual or worldly goals. The idea of sacrifice, whether metaphorical or literal, is deeply rooted in occult symbolism, representing the shedding of one’s old self or desires in pursuit of a greater truth or power.

Conclusion

Stanley Kubrick’s “Eyes Wide Shut” is a film that continues to intrigue audiences and provoke discussions about its hidden meanings and symbolism. While interpretations may vary, the incorporation of occult symbolism throughout the movie is undeniable. The masks, the mysterious cult, the red cloak, the labyrinthine journey, the exploration of altered states of consciousness, and the ritualistic imagery all contribute to the occult undertones present in the film. These elements serve to heighten the sense of mystery, challenge societal norms, and invite viewers to delve into the hidden realms of the human psyche. Whether one interprets the symbolism as purely metaphorical or as an exploration of esoteric concepts, “Eyes Wide Shut” remains a fascinating and enigmatic piece of cinema that continues to captivate audiences to this day.