Disturbing dystopia

Rating: 10/10 (30 September 2007)

"A Clockwork Orange" is Stanley Kubrick's film based on Anthony Burgess' novel. The story follows the life of Alex de Large, the leader of a gang in a dystopian Britain where gang violence has become an overwhelming problem, leading the government to use radical measures to placate gangs. The film raises questions of what measures are appropriate to deal with the surge in gang activity.
The technical qualities of this film are superb. Bizarre imagery and sets are used to great effect. The score is a mix of synthesizer music and classical pieces and suits the film very well. Classical music is also incorporated into the script in an intelligent way because one of Alex's chief interests is Beethoven's music. The idea to set a sex scene to the "William Tell Overture" was also an inspired choice.
Malcolm McDowell gives a perfect performance as Alex de Large and creates an unforgettable character. All of the film's supporting performances were effective as well. This film's script is engaging and never failed to keep me interested in what turn Alex's life would take next. At times violence and rape are depicted in a deeply disturbing manner, yet this film never fails to be compelling and thought-provoking. Another interesting dimension of the film was that it had its own vernacular of slang terms used by Alex and his gang members. "A Clockwork Orange" creates a world that is shocking yet provocative and enthralling.