What Kubrick liked so much in this movie?

I thought it was a nice story about a man reflecting on his life and trying to change his ways and be more appreciative of all he's got. It wasn't exciting and the ending threw me off because it came out of nowhere but I enjoyed it

Well, it is a very moving film that is beautifully shot with great performances for one thing. Just because it is "beyond you" that Kubrick admired this film doesn't make it a bad film.

Well, it's one of the greatest films ever made, so that Kubrick liked it, is no surprise...

It's an undeniable milestone in the medium of film and screenwriting, beautifully shot and acted and truly emotionally engaging. An absolute masterwork.

for me it was one of the more enjoyable Bergman films.

Kubrick was like the old man. Maybe he related to him.