Stylish, terrifying, influential, scary, brutal — there are few adjectives one cannot apply to “A Clockwork Orange.” I’ve refrained from frequently reviewing films from one of cinema’s greatest directors, Stanley Kubrick, because he is the only director who never repeated
Stylish, terrifying, influential, scary, brutal — there are few adjectives one cannot apply to “A Clockwork Orange.”
I’ve refrained from frequently reviewing films from one of cinema’s greatest directors, Stanley Kubrick, because he is the only director who never repeated himself. Every single film of his is completely original. “A Clockwork Orange” has now become a cult film, but in 1971 it was a different story.
The movie is centered around Alex (played by Malcolm McDowell) and his journey from violence to redemption. Or does he find redemption? Many debate the urban legend that this film was banned in England due to its violence; however, by today’s standards it’s nothing. That is what is ironic: a director’s simple view of society and the future was able to stir up so many people.
This film is landmark for its use of cinematography, editing and characters we as viewers never experienced and never have since. I want to make a quick note: the film is not for kids but is perfectly fine age 16 and over. It will shock you, but don’t buy the hype that the film may have been banned or is usually known has “too violent.” I think it is the realism of the film that scares us and that is what people don’t like to admit.
We live in a world with war, protests, murder and less peace each day. I don’t believe Kubrick set out to make such a social statement that would hold true 40 years later, but he was known as a visionary. I was fortunate enough to see this movie on the big screen, and boy is ita trip in its full glory.
There is also one of cinema’s best scenes ever, a violent scenario played out as our lead character sings the Hollywood classic “Singing in the Rain.” It was a true symbol of the change in times and Hollywood.
“A Clockwork Orange” is another film that was only able to happen in 1971. It was thanks to the liberal-minded Warner Brothers studio executive John Calley, who gave Kubrick creative freedom.
Thankfully so, because Kubrick eventually went on to bring us nothing but masterful works until his death.
• Paul Booth is a film producer/director/historian and can be reached at pkb_1@hotmail.com if you have any comments.
Year: 1971
Studio: Warner Brothers
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Oscars: Nominations (Picture, Screenplay, Editing, Director)
1. Paths of Glory
2. The Killing
3. Full Metal Jacket
4. The Shining
5. Eyes Wide Shut
6. Lolita
7. Sparticus
8. 2001: A Space Odyssey
9. Fear and Desire
10. Killer’s Kiss
