2001: A Space Odyssey vs. The Tree of Life

5 comments

7 comments

on 5/30/2011

Great comparison.

on 6/4/2011

They're both intelligent, beautiful masterpieces ... but "The Tree of Life" has heart where "2001" doesn't. I love Kubrick's form, his audacity and his commitment to creating the perfect shot. Malick, though, wins out every time because, to me, his films all speak to the heart. He earnestly seeks and often finds the good in mankind and I think that's a bold and exceedingly difficult thing to do, especially in an age where we're so fascinated by the evil we do to each other.

JRM
JRM

on 11/13/2011

The Tree of Life was obviously influenced a lot by Kubrick's 2001, but I think Malick's film surpassed its teacher to become something more; emotionally engaging.

on 2/1/2012

Both great but 2001 is in a different league

on 3/8/2012

2001, easily. Oddly enough, I find that film hugely entertaining whereas Malick's was occasionally boring. Both were clearly works of great art, but I just enjoy Kubrick's style much more.

Seb
Seb

on 5/2/2012

2001 is great, but the tree of life goes beyond the form of filmmaking. its an expererience, and an unforgattable one at that..

on 7/22/2012

The Tree of Life, it took me a few times to watch 2001 without falling alseep, TTOF speak more about existance, humanity and the human spirit

on 7/23/2012

Both amazing films. I don't know where to begin with comparing them. They both take filmmaking to such unique places.

Seb
Seb

on 7/28/2012

the tree of life is this centuries 2001. in 20+ years, much like 2001, it will have grown significantly in stature and understanding. its ahead of its time, and hasnt recieved the complete praise and acknowledgement that it truly deserves. for me personally, the tree of life touches on something more profound. TTOF wins

on Apr 10

Tree of Life.

on Apr 16

I found 2001: A Space Odyssey an entertaining film. It easily stands as one of the best films of all time. Sure they're very similar films in terms of style and execution, but Kubrick's masterpiece is something more.

on Apr 16

I haven't seen The Tree of Life. I can't believe it's being compared favorably to 2001. I can't possibly fathom it being a better movie. I'll just have to check it out and then revisit this poll.

Nin
Nin

on Apr 27

I'll take Tree of Life on this. 2001 is a good idea not explored in enough depth and left far too sparse to maintain my interest for nearly 3 hours.

on May 10

2001

on May 29

2001 isn't as intolerable upon repeat viewings, but TToL is one of the most awe-inspiring films I've ever seen. Everything from the acting to the visuals is great, and the story touches the deepest parts of your heart. 2001's coldness doesn't sit well with me. Malick does it better.

on Jun 2

I've seen both films, and this is definitely an interesting comparison as they both have some similarities. To cut to the chase though, I honestly think "2001" is the better experience. The imagery in "The Tree of Life" is phenomenal, but so is "2001", and I think "2001" has a more emotive, ethereal and fascinating atmosphere to it. The structure of "2001" had a certain tightness to it that I think "The Tree of Life" lacks a little somewhat. Kubrick's direction was perfect in my opinion. Moreover, even though "The Tree of Life" is a remarkable film, I was blown away more by "2001" than I was for "The Tree of Life". "2001" wins in my opinion.