New Documentary ‘Monolith’ to Explore the Legacy of a Sci-Fi Masterpiece
A new feature documentary titled Monolith will delve into the profound cultural and technological impact of 2001: A Space Odyssey, one of the most iconic films in cinema history. The project is being developed with full support from the Stanley Kubrick estate and the Stanley Kubrick Film Archive, ensuring rare insights and authentic storytelling.
A-List Producers Join Forces for a Cinematic Tribute
Oscar-winner Leonardo DiCaprio and his production company Appian Way are among the major forces behind Monolith, with DiCaprio producing alongside Jennifer Davisson, Mike Medavoy and Michael Lee Peterson of Phoenix Pictures, and Jason Clark of Catchlight Studios. The film is also backed by TIME Studios and Partners in Kind, both of which are co-financing the production.
Directed by Stevan Riley, Filming Begins in 2025
Helmed by acclaimed documentarian Stevan Riley, known for Listen to Me Marlon, the film begins production in April 2025 and is expected to release in 2026. Riley described 2001 as “the ultimate Zeitgeist movie,” emphasizing its relevance to modern issues such as AI, space exploration, and the future of human evolution.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Rare Archives and Fresh Interviews to Uncover New Perspectives
Monolith promises exclusive content, including never-before-seen letters exchanged between Stanley Kubrick and co-writer Arthur C. Clarke. It will also feature interviews with today’s visionaries, technologists, and creatives who credit 2001: A Space Odyssey as a core inspiration in their work.
Partners in Kind to Lead Social Impact Campaigns
The Partners in Kind Foundation, in collaboration with Propper Daley BPI, will lead social initiatives inspired by the film’s themes—such as ethics in artificial intelligence, space ethics, and the pursuit of knowledge. Claudia Cahill, formerly of Omnicom Media Group, will head up strategic partnerships and outreach programs designed to amplify the documentary’s message beyond the screen.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
A Film That Continues to Evolve with Time
Originally released in 1968, 2001: A Space Odyssey was co-written by Kubrick and Clarke and starred Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, and featured the haunting voice of Douglas Rain as HAL 9000. Despite initial mixed reviews, including sharp criticism from Pauline Kael, the film has grown into a cultural touchstone. It was recently voted the greatest film of all time by a directors’ poll, reaffirming its legendary status.
What to Expect from ‘Monolith’
The documentary aims to be more than a historical retrospective. With its focus on philosophical questions, technological foresight, and artistic innovation, Monolith will examine how 2001 shaped modern thought and continues to resonate in today’s digitally evolving society.