I can see where you are coming from, but I will make a couple points. First, FMJ is in my opinion one of his weakest films, even though it is one of the most well remembered. Second, Kubrick covered a wide variety of subjects in his films. I admit I am biased because he is pretty much my favorite director of all time, but I am convinced that basically anyone will be able to find some Kubrick film that either speaks to them in some way or that they find thoroughly entertaining. I'd say his greatest audience pleaser is Dr. Strangelove, a great war satire. Since it's more light-hearted you may be able to identify with it more. I would also recommend The Killing, which is far and away his most underrated work. It's an excellent film-noir style crime caper that doesn't incorporate nearly as many of the darker elements of his later work. It's also more plot-driven, less of a character study so less of a chance for you to hate it for the reasons you listed above.
I will also add that my personal favorite is 2001: A Space Odyssey, which some people find inaccessable or pretentious, but I think is one of the most breathtaking film experiences I've ever had.
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