Douglas Trumbull was instrumental in realizing Stanley Kubrick’s ambitious vision for 2001: A Space Odyssey, particularly through his innovative visual effects. At just 23, he created the iconic ‘Stargate’ sequence using the groundbreaking Slit Scan technique. His legacy includes contributions to classic films like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Blade Runner. Trumbull’s collaboration with Kubrick led to pioneering imagery that reshaped the sci-fi genre, showcasing his creative genius and lasting influence on filmmakers.
The Visionary Behind 2001: A Space Odyssey
Without the groundbreaking contributions of Douglas Trumbull, Stanley Kubrick’s ambitious vision for 2001: A Space Odyssey might never have materialized. This iconic film has firmly established itself in the cinematic canon, particularly lauded for its groundbreaking visual effects that were revolutionary for their time.
Douglas Trumbull, a legendary figure in the realm of visual effects, passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of innovation. As a brilliant inventor, he played a pivotal role in the visual effects of some of the most beloved sci-fi classics, including Steven Spielberg’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Star Trek, and Blade Runner—each of which earned Trumbull an Oscar nomination.
In addition to his work on these monumental films, Trumbull directed the sci-fi gem Silent Running, while also experiencing the misfortune of directing the troubled film Brainstorm in 1983, which was marred by the tragic passing of its star, Natalie Wood.
Creating the Iconic ‘Stargate’ Sequence
Trumbull’s creativity shone through at just 23 years old when he crafted one of the most memorable scenes in film history for Kubrick: the iconic ‘Stargate’ sequence. Using a revolutionary technique known as Slit Scan, Trumbull influenced countless filmmakers who followed, including Coralie Fargeat, who drew inspiration for her film The Substance.
In the climactic moments of the film, only Dr. David Bowman (Keir Dullea) remains after the ship’s malevolent AI dispatches his crew. With HAL 9000 now vanquished, Bowman finds himself adrift in space. As he ventures beyond the confines of his ship, he witnesses a surreal alignment of celestial bodies, leading him through a vibrant, kaleidoscopic tunnel that distorts time and space. Bowman’s astonished wonder rapidly shifts to sheer terror as he is reborn as an astral fetus—a sequence that would resonate with future directors like David Lynch.
In 2016, we had the privilege of engaging in an enlightening conversation with Douglas Trumbull, who shared insights into the creative process behind the legendary ‘Stargate’ sequence. He credited the original concept of Slit Scan to John Whitney, a pioneering photographic artist known for his abstract light representations and innovative animation techniques.
Trumbull explained, “Whitney motorized the movement of backlit artworks, creating various patterns and moiré effects. The shutter would remain open as these elements moved, allowing for a unique blur effect.” When tasked with bringing the ‘Stargate’ sequence to life, Trumbull recalled the struggles of the production team to conceptualize this pivotal moment.
Initially envisioned as a portal through one of Jupiter’s moons, the sequence underwent numerous tests with rotating mirrors and light tricks typical of the 1960s, none of which met expectations. It wasn’t until Trumbull revived Whitney’s Slit Scan technique that success was achieved. He rigged a camera on a rail in front of an animated panel, allowing for a seamless blend of motion and light.
Filled with excitement, Trumbull rushed to showcase his experiment to Kubrick. “I took a Polaroid, and at that moment, the colors were still wet. When I presented it to Stanley, I explained the process, and he was immediately intrigued,” Trumbull recounted. “He asked, ‘How do we do it?’ I told him I needed to construct a large Slit Scan Machine, and he urged me to make it happen swiftly!”
Kubrick’s willingness to take risks and experiment was a rarity in the industry at the time, but he was determined to push boundaries and create unprecedented imagery. The result was a cinematic triumph that has captivated audiences and secured its place in film history.