This is the groundbreaking work of the modern sci-fi genre, a philosophical film about the evolution of civilization, an epic among epics. When we contrast the insignificance of humanity with the vastness of the universe, it deepens our contemplation of our own destiny. As the magnificent symphony plays, it ushers the thoughts of life roaming through an unknown universe with no beginning or end, exploring its own ultimate meaning. Great films are immortal, and so is the great Kubrick.
You have to tough it out and watch it the first time, feeling like you have no clue what it's all about. When you give it a second go, you might start to feel like it's beginning to make some sense. By the third time, you'll realize it's actually delving into multiple themes. After the fourth time, you might feel like you've got a handle on something. By the fifth time, you'll be thinking, "OMG, this is absolutely incredible! And it's from 1968!"