"In this world of make-believe, they don't believe in me!"

Rating: Null/10 (5 April 2006)

I have just seen "A Clockwork Orange" for the first time, after many years looking forward to seeing it. Looking back, it was good that I didn't watch it when I was younger, as I probably wouldn't be mature enough to handle it.
"A Clockwork Orange" is certainly one of the most cruel, bizarre and disturbing films ever made. There are some really unpleasant, ultra-violent scenes. It is disturbing because it's not gratuitous, like Larry Clark's movies (especially the outrageous "Ken Park"). Anthony Burgess and Stanley Kubrick were visionaries. ACO not only hasn't aged, but it's quite a landmark now rather than it was 40 years ago. We can see a gang like Mr. Alex de Large's (Malcolm McDowell, superb) on every corner. 21st century youth is gradually getting lost. It's such an empty, brutal state that the recent movies to portray this callow, lost youth don't even use metaphors to criticize the "society": they're raw, straight to the point (at least, most of them). "Thirteen" and "Elephant" are good examples. They may not be half strong and original as ACO, but they're sadly realistic; because we tend to think there isn't a true reason for these teenagers to behave so badly. Apparently, they have everything they need. Whether there's a solution or not, I don't know. What could it be? Brainwash? It wouldn't work. Unless it's in a large scale. High technology has made us lazier, there are lunatic clowns in power, Lindsay Lohan and Hilary Duff are queens and "Crash" gets the Best Picture Oscar. It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. I'm laughing not to cry.
Holden Caulfield, the catcher in the rye, is an idol of mine. He was no angel, but at least he tried to understand what's around him  in his eventually twisted way. But at least he tried. And he was sincere. Alex de Large is a bastard. I don't relate to him but, unfortunately, as an 18 year-old guy, I've known much more De Larges than Caulfields. I should stop digressing.
My verdict: "A Clockwork Orange" is a truly unique film, one of Kubrick's best  if not the best. Watch it by yourself. You may not find a solution, but you're going to have an unforgettable cinematic experience. 10 out of 10.