Brilliant Classic on the problems with "Aversion Therapy"

Rating: 10/10 (9 April 2008)

This extra-ordinary classic novel by Anthony Burgess originally sold to the Rolling Stones for $500 was picked up by the great Stanley Kubrick who wrote the screenplay and produced and directed it. The film set in the future uses a language created by Burgess , Nadsat, which is a mixture of English and Russian slang.
Story revolves around a stylistic gang leader Alex and his gang the droogs. Alex and his mates not only indulge in violent robberies involving rape but also attack rival gangs with their successful style of ultra violence. Alex also loves seducing very young teenage girls for group sex and this is displayed in the film at high speed to William Tells Overture. He is also obsessed with Beethoven's 9th symphony in D minor which gives him delusions off grandeur and manic elation especially during a scene when he turns on his fellow gang members. A graphic scene follows where Alex and his subjugated gang carry out a home invasion to the theme of the Rossini's Thieving Magpies overture.
Alex is caught and imprisoned for the murder of the old spinster owner. Alex undergoes a new and radical procedure of "Aversion Therapy" to suppress his violent and sexual tendencies. Unfortunately this therapy also leaves Alex unable to function within the realms of his personality creating disastrous Psychological problems. Alex is unable to defend himself when attacked by various of his victims including his former fellow gang members who are now Police. Eventually Alex stumbles across a wealthy political activist Mr Alexander who is trying to overthrow the government and seeks solace with him. Unfortunately for Alex Mr Alexander recognises him as the man who raped and murdered his wife during a home invasion.
Mr Alexander tries to expose the Governments use of Aversion therapy as an abuse of human rights but it backfires and Alex becomes a hero indulged upon by the Government.
Kubrick withdrew the film when censored in Britain. It a classic on every level.