How did Stanley Kubrick's perfectionism affect his filmmaking process?

Stanley Kubrick’s perfectionism was a defining characteristic of his filmmaking process, manifesting in a meticulous, hands-on approach to every aspect of production, including writing, cinematography, editing, and production design. This commitment to detail earned him a reputation as a "control freak," ensuring his unique signature was imprinted on every project.123

The impact of this perfectionism on his process included:

• Extended Timelines: His painstaking research and preparation often resulted in long gaps between releases; for instance, he spent four years on 2001: A Space Odyssey and delayed projects like A.I.: Artificial Intelligence while waiting for specific special-effects technology to become available.14
• Interpersonal Strain: His intense, passionate involvement with his art could make him difficult to work with, leading to instances where he was perceived as harsh or cruel to collaborators.1
• Creative Flexibility: Despite his rigorous planning, Kubrick remained open to experimentation and the ideas of others, often discovering the final structure of his films during the production process itself.1

Ultimately, this dedication allowed him to maintain a high degree of creative control throughout his career.14