Jonatwork,
I think you hit the nail on the head for me.
Kubrick's vision does seem more realistic to me,as apposed to Lucas' fantasy.
I've noticed in the past how much silence plays a part in Kubrick's vision,as much a part as the music does. It has an eerie quality to it.
In contrast Star Wars is a noisy affair come to think of it.
I've never really thought of it this way.
Cool.