Disturbing, but fascinating

Rating: 9/10 (16 October 2002)

Watching this movie hurts. If you can get past the horribly dated images, it tells a fantastically ugly story.
Sexual images abound throughout this movie, in many cases for no apparent reason. Your kids don't need to see it.
The lead character is a thoroughly despicable lout, you are supposed to hate him. And hate all he stands for. He is truly slime, and if you ever find yourself relating to this character, I STRONGLY suggest you seek counselling.
For a brief time, the character is completely incapable of defending himself against the brutalities he is forced to endure. Once he regains his ability to defend himself, he returns to the same brutish, despicable lout.
Visually, it truly is a gorgeous piece of 1971 film. The decor and decorations and clothing represent the height of ultra-mod at the time. Compare the visuals here to something like Space 1999 to get a feel for the time.
But beware when you sit down to watch: the ugliness may be too repulsive for someone prepared for an evening of popcorn and entertainment.
This is an all time classic. You could call it Science Fiction, or Action, or Drama, or Horror. Just don't call it Comedy.