Stanley Kubrick's 'Eyes Wide Shut' Sees Resurgence Amid Epstein Conspiracy Theories

The classic film's parallels to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal have sparked wild speculation about the director's death.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Director Stanley Kubrick's final film, 'Eyes Wide Shut', has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, primarily driven by conspiracy theories surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal and Kubrick's sudden death shortly after the film's completion. The movie's depiction of a secret, password-protected orgy party among the wealthy elite has drawn comparisons to the Epstein case, leading some to speculate that Kubrick's original version included a pedophilia element that was later removed. However, the article argues that reducing the film to a 'conspiracy puzzle' does a disservice to both the work of art and the real-life Epstein case, and that the movie's relevance stems more from its exploration of the real-world fears and desires that accompany our dreams.

Why it matters

The renewed interest in 'Eyes Wide Shut' highlights the public's fascination with conspiracy theories, particularly those involving the wealthy and powerful. The film's parallels to the Epstein case have fueled speculation about Kubrick's death and the potential censorship of his original vision, raising questions about the relationship between art, power, and the truth.

The details

In the film, the character of Victor Ziegler (played by Sydney Pollack) warns the protagonist, Dr. Bill Harford (Tom Cruise), about the dangerous and powerful cabal behind the secret orgy party he attended. This scene has drawn comparisons to the Epstein case, with its remote island and partially redacted business and political connections. The film also features a scene with an underage girl being pimped out by her father, which some have speculated was a reference to the sex trafficking allegations surrounding Epstein. However, the article argues that the film's ambiguity and focus on the Harfords' marriage and the nature of desire make it more about the exploration of the human psyche than a direct commentary on the Epstein case.

  • Kubrick died in March 1999, just four months before the film's release in July 1999.

The players

Stanley Kubrick

The acclaimed director of 'Eyes Wide Shut', who died shortly after completing the film.

Victor Ziegler

A character in 'Eyes Wide Shut' who warns the protagonist about the dangerous and powerful cabal behind the secret orgy party.

Dr. Bill Harford

The protagonist of 'Eyes Wide Shut', played by Tom Cruise, who attends the secret orgy party.

Alice Harford

The wife of the protagonist in 'Eyes Wide Shut', played by Nicole Kidman, who reveals to her husband that she has fantasized about other men.

Roger Avary

A filmmaker and collaborator of Quentin Tarantino, who appeared on the Joe Rogan podcast and claimed that Kubrick's original version of 'Eyes Wide Shut' included a pedophilia element that was later removed.

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What they’re saying

“Who do you think those people were? Those were not just ordinary people there. If I told you their names – I'm not going to tell you their names, but if I did – I don't think you'd sleep so well.”

— Victor Ziegler (Eyes Wide Shut)

“The important thing is, we're awake now. And hopefully for a long time to come.”

— Alice Harford (Eyes Wide Shut)

What’s next

The article does not mention any clear next steps or future newsworthy moments related to the story.

The takeaway

While 'Eyes Wide Shut' has drawn comparisons to the Epstein scandal, reducing the film to a 'conspiracy puzzle' does a disservice to both the work of art and the real-life case. The movie's enduring relevance stems from its exploration of the human psyche and the interplay between the real and dream worlds, rather than any direct commentary on the Epstein affair.