Did Danny Torrance Do Anything Creepy in The Shining Movie?

There are several theories floating around about the nature of Danny Torrance's 'shining' powers in The Shining. One prevalent theory suggests that Danny's existence alone serves as a catalyst for ghostly apparitions in the Overlook Hotel. As intriguing as this theory might be, there's more to Danny's character and his actions that will shake your core beliefs.

One of the most fascinating theories involves the notion that Danny's intense and uncensored emotions, fueled by his traumatic past and family conflicts, are not just a source of his supernatural abilities but also the cause of the haunting events in the film. Let’s delve into this fascinating concept, breaking it down into digestible bits and examining the deeper meanings behind some of Danny’s actions.

Danny's Psychic Powers and the Haunting

Some believe that Danny's 'shining' powers are the root cause of the ghosts, ghouls, and goblins appearing in the Overlook Hotel. The term 'shining' itself can be understood as Danny’s ability to project his intense emotions and thoughts, which in turn triggers the manifestation of these supernatural entities. Could it be that Danny's unbridled feelings are responsible for the haunting, or is there more to this phenomenon?

Trauma, Anger, and Repressed Emotions

Theories abound about the source of Danny's seemingly 'creepy' actions. It has often been posited that Danny's aggressive behavior and the manifestations of spectral torment have deep roots in the traumatic past he endured, particularly due to his father, Jack Torrance. Trauma often leads to sublimation, a psychological defense mechanism where emotions are channeled into behaviors that seem uncanny or uncharacteristic. According to this theory, Danny’s uncontrollable rage and dominance over his father, Jack, and perhaps the rooms of the Overlook Hotel, are not random or malevolent forces but are instead the culmination of repressed trauma and suppressed fury.

Superhero with a Weak Disciplined Force

Danny is a character often compared to a superhero with a weakly disciplined force. His 'shining' powers are a double-edged sword. On one hand, they are a means of survival and connection, allowing him to communicate and protect his family from the dark forces. On the other hand, they can be harnessed inappropriately, leading to unintended and sometimes harmful consequences. This internal struggle is a critical element of the narrative, highlighting the complexities of human emotions and the potential dangers of unchecked power.

Behind the Scenes of Danny's Acting

Beyond the psychological depth of Danny's character, the film offers a fascinating look at the making of one of Hollywood's most memorable performances. A lesser-known fact is that Danny Lloyd's iconic finger-wriggling gesture when his imaginary friend Tony appears wasn't part of the script. Lloyd, who was only 4 years old during the auditions, started doing this during the auditions and it was loved by the filmmakers. Kubrick, being protective of Lloyd as he was only 6 at the time of filming, made sure he stayed calm and comfortable. Lloyd, to this day, claims he never knew the film was a horror, and he even didn't realize it until years later. A memorable sequence seen by Lloyd is when he is chased through the snowy hedge maze by Nicholson, who was later injured from a sprained ankle and the biting cold. This scene was shot on 900 tons of salt, with lots of crushed Styrofoam to simulate the appearance of snow.

Post-Acting Career

Interestingly, not all of Lloyd's acting endeavors paid off, but he found a different kind of success. Lloyd turned to academia and is now a distinguished biology professor. This transition from acting to teaching emphasizes the significance of choosing the right path that aligns with one’s strengths and passions.

Is It All True?

Theories and conspiracy theories about The Shining abound, and it's a testament to the film's power and intrigue. Whether Danny's actions are truly 'creepy' or if the ghosts and apparitions appear solely due to his 'shine' is still up for debate. The film has provided endless material for analysis and speculation, making it a timeless piece of cinematic art.

Conclusion

So, did Danny Torrance really do anything creepy in The Shining? The answer lies in the depths of the film's narrative and the psychological impacts of trauma and power. While these theories provide an intriguing perspective, they can also offer a deeper understanding of the complex character Danny Torrance and the haunting legacy of The Shining.