A Dystopian Masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (17 July 2019)

Take the production value of 2001. Add the wit and dark humor of Dr. Strangelove. Throw in a bit of the old ultraviolence and what you have is A Clockwork Orange. Stanley Kubrick's dark, satirical and atmospheric film about free will, violence, authoritarian order and brainwashing. Kubrick, who has always been a filmmaker that prioritized look and sound over story, (But never in service to it) is in a league all by himself. The production is phenomenal and the atmosphere is intoxicating. Clockwork also boasts a terrific performance by Malcolm McDowell. His portrayal of the sociopathic and charismatic Alex, is one of cinemas most memorable. A film that pulls no punches. It takes shots at liberalism and authoritarianism and shows how easily the public can be swayed one way or the other. A though-provoking, funny, perverted, exceedingly violent and stylish motion picture. In short, a beautiful nightmare.