2001: A Space Odyssey 2nd Screening [Exhibition and Talk]

The second screening of 2001: A Space Odyssey at Capitol Theatre has just ended, and it still feels remarkable to see the film drawing near-capacity crowds of more than 400 people across all three screenings.

By this point, I must have watched 2001 on the big screen close to ten times. Yet something felt different this time. I found myself surprisingly emotional, not because the film had suddenly revealed some new meaning, but because I was struck again by its sheer visual artistry. There were moments when I simply thought: this was made in 1968. More than half a century later, the images can still feel impossibly bold, beautiful and strange.

Perhaps what I enjoy most, though, is knowing that many in the audience are seeing it for the first time. I wish I could experience that again, especially that wonderful moment afterwards when people emerge slightly dazed, confused, and immediately begin trying to make sense of what they have just seen. I myself had been there once, and maybe still now.

That, to me, is part of the wonder of film: encountering forms, ideas and modes of representation that may initially feel unfamiliar and discomforting, but ultimately challenging and expanding our perspectives and worldviews.

Thank you to everyone who came down, stayed for the post-film talk (an even bigger crowd this time) and showed me so much warmth and support throughout this little journey.

One last round to go on the 23rd of August!

(All photos are credited to Nana Tan)