Why is "The Shining" such a great film? The viewer is unknowingly enveloped with premeditated subliminal detail from beginning to end. In addition to outstanding acting, directing, and cinematography, numerous themes/references are revisited throughout the film. Examples include the duality of man, mazes, mirrors, symmetry, American history, and Native Americans. Though cryptic at times, these "messages" round out an epic horror film. The end result is a haunting unforgettable environment.
I found a pretty good film analysis that explains some of these themes/references.
http://www.collativelearning.com/the%20shining.html
