2001: A Space Odyssey is a 1968 science fiction film produced and directed by Stanley Kubrick. The screenplay was co-written by Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke, and was partially inspired by Clarke's short story "The Sentinel". The story deals with a series of encounters between humans and mysterious, giant black stones that are apparently affecting human evolution, and a space voyage to Jupiter tracing a signal emitted by one such monolith found on the moon. Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood star as the two astronauts on this voyage, with Douglas Rain as the voice of the conscious computer HAL 9000, who has full control over their spaceship.

 

The film is frequently described as an "epic film", both for its length and scope, and for its similarity to classical epics. The film deals with human evolution, technology, artificial intelligence, and extra-terrestrial life. It is notable for its scientific accuracy, pioneering special effects, surreal imagery, sound in place of traditional narrative techniques, and minimal use of dialogue. Despite initially receiving mixed reactions from critics and audiences alike, 2001: A Space Odyssey built up a cult following and slowly became a box office hit. Today it is recognized by many critics, filmmakers, and audiences as one of the greatest and most influential films ever made.