The Shining The final shot of the 1980 horror film ‘The Shining’ clearly serves as an almost accurate representation of culture i.e. way of life within the 1920s decade, specifically in regard to the manner in which individuals used to dress at certain events. The people within this photo are shown to be wearing smart clothing i.e. the men are wearing suits and ties and the women are wearing dresses. The fact that the image has been shot in black and white also represents the level of technology at the time as colour in television and images was not possible yet, therefore the only colours visible within the image are black and white. The possible reason for the use of this image within the film could be to establish the setting even further and/or make it easier for the audience to relate to the characters who reside in an earlier time period. This could potentially enhance the overall experience for the viewer(s).

The image has an almost sinister feel to it as almost every individual is depicted enjoying themselves despite the circumstances of their deaths. It is strongly implied that every person shown within the picture was killed in the hotel and that the people John was seeing within the film were ghosts. Credence to this is strengthened by the fact that John froze to death at the end of the film and that he was present in this picture (which is the ending shot of the film) afterwards alongside everyone else. The presence of black and white, as well as dark tones, creates a grim and brooding atmosphere in regard to the image. The ending shot of the film could imply that every person who moves into the hotel at winter is forced to endure the same things that John and his family went through during their stay, thus showing that the location is ‘cursed’. Another possible interpretation of this image is that every dead individual is trapped within the picture and that they are in anguish; although they seem happy in the photo, they could be in torment whilst being unable to call for help.